In response to recent taunts from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding a purported power tussle within the Karnataka Congress, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has asserted his strength and loyalty to the party. Shivakumar firmly stated that he commands the support of 136 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, underscoring the unity within the ruling coalition.

Addressing the media, Shivakumar downplayed any suggestion of internal conflict, emphasizing that the Congress government, blessed by the people of Karnataka, is committed to serving its full five-year term. He affirmed that he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah are working in unison, adhering to the directives of the party high command.

Shivakumar's remarks came in the wake of speculation fueled by his supporters hailing him as the 'next Chief Minister'. However, he dismissed the need for such endorsements, stating that he doesn't require anyone's support and will abide by the party's decisions. "No one should worry; there is no need for any political turn. People have blessed us and given us an opportunity, and we will continue for five years. All the talks going on are without any value. The Chief Minister and I will continue functioning as per the directions of the party," Shivakumar told reporters.

When questioned about supporters advocating for him to be the next Chief Minister, Shivakumar said, "I don't want anyone to demand anything from me; I don't want anyone's support. I do not need any legislator's backing. This is between me and the Congress party. Whatever the Congress party says, I will function accordingly. I don't want workers or legislators to shout for me or stand in my support. I will do my duty". He further added, "I believe in the saying: 'Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana'—make your efforts, and leave the results to God".

These comments followed remarks by K.N. Rajanna, a cabinet colleague close to Siddaramaiah, who suggested Shivakumar should aim for the Chief Minister's position by leading the party to victory in the next elections, rather than seeking it during the incumbent government's remaining term. Speculation about a potential change in leadership in Karnataka has been circulating within the Congress, particularly after Siddaramaiah's dinner with select Dalit and Scheduled Tribe (ST) cabinet members.

Amidst these discussions, Shivakumar has strongly refuted allegations made by the BJP, dismissing them as politically motivated and baseless. He asserted that the opposition is attempting to malign a Dalit minister for partisan gains and that such claims are fabricated to create unnecessary controversy and defame the government.

Party troubleshooter Randeep Surjewala has accused the BJP, in collusion with sections of the media, of running a malicious campaign to weaken the Congress government in the state. He warned lawmakers against making "needless statements". Shivakumar has stated, "None of us has questioned the authority of the Chief Minister. I have never asked. I have never agreed to a reshuffle. He has the authority, and thus he has said it. None of us has said he won't be there for five years. Once elders have said it, we juniors follow it".

The Deputy Chief Minister's firm stance underscores the Congress leadership's commitment to accountability while rejecting what they describe as unfounded accusations from the BJP. Shivakumar's emphasis on the support of 136 MLAs serves as a show of strength and a message of unity to both his party members and the opposition.