Bengaluru: Karnataka's political landscape is witnessing renewed activity as Home Minister G. Parameshwara has subtly indicated his interest in the Chief Minister's position should a leadership change occur in the state. This development comes amidst ongoing speculation regarding a potential power-sharing agreement between current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.
Parameshwara's statement, made to reporters on Sunday, November 23, 2025, has added a new dimension to the internal dynamics of the ruling Congress party. "I've always been in the race for Chief Minister," he stated, suggesting that his ambition for the top post is not new. He further emphasized his past contributions to the party, particularly his role as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president in 2013 when the Congress returned to power. He also noted that his contributions have often been understated despite his consistent presence in leadership conversations.
The speculation about a change in leadership stems from an alleged agreement made in 2023, where Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar would share the Chief Minister's tenure. With the government having completed half of its five-year term in November, discussions about a leadership transition have gained momentum. Some have even referred to this potential shift as the "November revolution".
Shivakumar's camp has reportedly been lobbying the party's high command for a leadership change, citing the purported power-sharing pact. According to sources, MLAs loyal to Shivakumar met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi to advocate for his appointment as Chief Minister.
Amidst these developments, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with Kharge to discuss party organization and upcoming local elections, dismissing rumors of leadership change as media speculation. He emphasized unity within the party and readiness to accept decisions from the high command. Adding to the narrative, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that Siddaramaiah will continue as CM for the full five-year term.
Parameshwara, while acknowledging his aspirations, has attempted to downplay any suggestion of discord within the party. "Everyone in the party has ambitions. That is natural. But ultimately, the high command decides, and we all abide by that decision," he said. He also clarified that he has no immediate plans to meet with Kharge. He pointed out that no one from the Congress high command has spoken on the matter so far, nor has it been discussed in the Congress Legislature Party.
The Home Minister's comments have also coincided with renewed calls for a Dalit Chief Minister in Karnataka. Parameshwara, a prominent Dalit leader, could be a potential candidate if the party decides to pursue this option.
The senior Congress leader further said that AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge will decide on leadership change, if there is a need, after discussing with top party leader Rahul Gandhi, who is currently abroad.
Political observers suggest that any decision regarding a change in leadership will likely be made by the AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. The coming weeks could be crucial in determining the future leadership structure of the Karnataka government.
