Bengaluru, November 26, 2025 - In a significant development in Karnataka's political landscape, the influential Adichunchanagiri Mutt pontiff, Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji, has publicly voiced his support for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as the next Chief Minister of the state. This endorsement comes amidst ongoing speculation regarding a potential change in leadership within the ruling Congress party.
The seer's statement, made during an interaction with the media at Kundur Mutt in Channarayapatna taluk, carries considerable weight due to the Adichunchanagiri Mutt's significant influence, particularly among the Vokkaliga community. The Vokkaligas are a dominant community in Karnataka, and the Mutt is highly revered within the community.
"I have been observing the political developments in the media. I had hoped that after two-and-a-half years, someone from our community would become the Chief Minister. We also have the desire that D.K. Shivakumar should become the Chief Minister," Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji stated. He also noted that the Vokkaliga community favored the Congress party in the last elections with the expectation that D.K. Shivakumar would be appointed as Chief Minister. "However, he missed the chance in the changed scenario," the seer added.
The pontiff emphasized Shivakumar's contributions to the party and the state, stating, "Mr. Shivakumar has worked for the party. He should get a chance. The Congress should take a decision keeping the interest of the State and considering Mr. Shivakumar's struggle".
D.K. Shivakumar, who is also the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), has been a prominent figure in Karnataka politics for decades. He has served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) since 1989, representing both the Sathanur and Kanakapura constituencies. After the Congress party's victory in the 2023 elections, Shivakumar assumed the role of Deputy Chief Minister.
Amidst the ongoing speculation, Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain has also asserted his confidence that Shivakumar will "soon" take over as Chief Minister, claiming he is "200 percent" certain of the transition. Hussain has previously stated that there was an "understanding" within the Congress party regarding a power transfer, where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would lead the government for the first half of the term, with Shivakumar taking over in the latter half.
Shivakumar himself has acknowledged the speculation but has refrained from making definitive statements. He has emphasized his loyalty to the party and has denied personally requesting the Chief Minister's post or directing MLAs to lobby on his behalf.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has maintained that he intends to serve the full five-year term and will present the next state budget in March 2026. He has also stated that the decision regarding any changes in the government, including leadership changes or cabinet reshuffles, rests with the party high command.
The public endorsement from the Adichunchanagiri Mutt seer adds another layer to the complex political dynamics within the Karnataka Congress. While the party leadership has urged patience and unity, the open expression of support for D.K. Shivakumar highlights the ongoing undercurrents and aspirations within the party. It remains to be seen how these developments will unfold and what decisions the Congress high command will ultimately make regarding the leadership of the state.
