Amidst the ongoing power struggle in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has stated that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will visit Delhi when summoned by the Congress high command. This comes amid speculation about a change in leadership in the state.

Shivakumar's statement, made on Saturday, December 20, 2025, followed assertions by Siddaramaiah in the Assembly that he would continue in office. Siddaramaiah also expressed confidence that the high command would allow him to complete his five-year term.

"They have told something to both of us, they have told both of us over phone as to when they will call us. We will go, both of us will go,” Shivakumar told reporters, adding, "I will inform you, I won't do anything without informing you. I will not go hiding from you". He also mentioned that the high command stated they would call both leaders at the appropriate time, and they are awaiting that call.

The power tussle has intensified since the Congress government in Karnataka reached the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, 2025. Fueling the speculation is a rumored 2023 power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, where Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister for half of the term, with Shivakumar taking over for the remaining two and a half years.

Earlier, reports suggested that MLAs and MLCs from Shivakumar's faction had been in Delhi to lobby the high command to appoint him as the next Chief Minister. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has downplayed the "internal conflict" within the party, assuring that the high command will address the issue. Kharge acknowledged the power struggle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar and said that Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and himself would deliberate on the matter and "give the medicine when required".

Adding to the intrigue, some 'Naga Sadhus' recently visited Shivakumar's residence to offer their blessings. Shivakumar is scheduled to visit Delhi on Tuesday to meet with central ministers regarding the interlinking of rivers, as he is also the Minister for Water Resources.

Despite the ongoing speculation, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have publicly denied any demands or discussions about a leadership change. Shivakumar previously stated that he and Siddaramaiah had reached an agreement with the Congress high command's involvement and that both would abide by it.