Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday in Bengaluru, fueling speculation about potential changes in the state's Chief Minister position. The meeting occurs amidst an ongoing power dynamic between Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, particularly after the Congress government marked the halfway point of its five-year term on November 20.

Following the meeting, Shivakumar addressed reporters, dismissing any political motives behind the discussion. He stated that he simply shared his thoughts with Kharge, as the state unit chief, regarding a law enacted by the Centre replacing MGNREGA, ahead of the Congress Working Committee meeting on December 27. He emphasized that no other issues were discussed with Kharge, stating, "There is no need to do it, I will not do it, there is no such thing for now".

When questioned about the ongoing Chief Minister speculation, Shivakumar affirmed his commitment to abiding by the high command's decision, a sentiment echoed by Siddaramaiah. "Siddaramaiah and I have said that we will work abiding by the high command's decision, and we are committed to it," he stated.

Kharge had previously commented on the leadership issue, suggesting that any confusion existed only at the local level and not within the party's high command. When asked about Kharge's statement, Shivakumar responded, "As a senior leader, he has given his guidance". Kharge's remarks came amidst expectations that the Congress high command would intervene to resolve the leadership question after the legislative session concluded on December 19.

Shivakumar also addressed his earlier statement about preferring to be a party worker, clarifying that he meant being a lifetime member dedicated to serving the party regardless of any specific position. "I'm a lifetime worker of the party. Whatever the post may be, I'm a worker of the party," he explained. He highlighted his long-standing commitment to the party, emphasizing his willingness to undertake any task, from putting up posters to sweeping, and that he has done all things for the Congress party.

The Congress party secured a significant victory in the 2023 assembly elections, winning 135 out of 224 seats. However, tensions regarding the Chief Minister position have persisted since then. The party leadership had to exert considerable effort to persuade Shivakumar to allow Siddaramaiah to assume leadership initially.