Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has firmly warned Congress leaders against discussing any potential change in the state's chief minister. This comes after a party MLA voiced support for Shivakumar as the next chief minister. Shivakumar stressed that he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah are working together and adhering to the high command's guidelines.

Shivakumar has instructed the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) to issue notices to those who speak about the CM post. He stated that there is no need to react to the BJP's comments on the matter and that no one should say anything related to the CM position. He has directed KPCC working president GC Chandrashekhar to take action against those who violate these instructions. Shivakumar has emphasized the importance of party discipline and has warned that disciplinary action will be taken against leaders who publicly discuss the need for a leadership change or the creation of more Deputy CM posts.

This warning was prompted by Kunigal Congress MLA H.D. Ranganath, who expressed his hope to see Shivakumar become chief minister, calling him a "rising star" and a "pan-India leader". Ranganath credited Shivakumar for the Congress's victory in the 2023 Assembly elections, praising his commitment and contributions to the party. Former Mandya MP L.R. Shivarame Gowda also claimed that Shivakumar would become the next CM in November.

In response to these discussions, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reaffirmed his position, stating that he would be chief minister for the full five-year term. Siddaramaiah has consistently denied the existence of any power-sharing agreement. Shivakumar has also echoed this sentiment, asserting that there is no need for any discord on the leadership issue and stressing the importance of strengthening the Congress government in the state.

It is worth noting that following the Assembly victory last year, Siddaramaiah was chosen as chief minister after discussions with the party's central leadership. While there were reports suggesting a rotational chief ministership arrangement with Shivakumar, the Congress high command never confirmed it. Shivakumar has made it clear that he has not asked anyone to make him the CM.