Recent political murmurs in Karnataka suggest a potential shift in the state's leadership, with speculation arising around Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar possibly taking over the Chief Minister's role. These rumors have gained traction following statements from within the ruling Congress party, hinting at a possible government reshuffle in the coming months.
Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna, a known confidant of current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, ignited the speculation by suggesting "too many power centres" exist within the Karnataka Congress. He alluded to potential changes after September, prompting questions about whether Siddaramaiah would be replaced. When asked directly about a change in Chief Minister, Rajanna responded cryptically, stating, "It may or may not happen". Rajanna also pointed out that during Siddaramaiah's previous term (2013-2018), there was a single power center, whereas now there are many, creating more "hustle and bustle".
Adding to the intrigue, some reports suggest Shivakumar might be replaced as the Congress state president. Rajanna himself has expressed interest in the position, stating he would resign as minister to take on the role if offered.
However, not all members of the Karnataka government share Rajanna's sentiments. Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi stated he doesn't anticipate major upheavals, suggesting only minor changes might occur. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself has attempted to quell the rumors, dismissing reports of internal conflict within the Congress party and downplaying Rajanna's remarks. He insisted there is no leadership crisis.
DK Shivakumar has also refuted claims that Siddaramaiah has lost control over the state administration, dismissing such speculation as media exaggeration. "The CM has not lost control over the administration," Shivakumar stated. "Nothing like that has happened. If there are issues, the party high command will deal with it. I've also been talking to them. You reporters are blowing up things".
Despite these attempts to downplay the situation, the rumors persist. Adding fuel to the fire, Congress MLA Basavaraju V. Shivaganga claimed earlier this year that DK Shivakumar would become Chief Minister by December. He went so far as to say Shivakumar would serve as Chief Minister for the next 7.5 years, confident that the Congress party would win the next Assembly elections under his leadership. Former Union Minister Veerappa Moily has also publicly stated that no one can stop Shivakumar from becoming Chief Minister.
The Congress party has a history of dealing with similar situations. Following the Assembly election results in May 2023, there was stiff competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the Chief Minister's position. Ultimately, the Congress leadership convinced Shivakumar to accept the role of Deputy Chief Minister. Some reports at the time suggested a "rotational chief minister" agreement was in place, with Shivakumar taking over after two-and-a-half years, although the party has never officially confirmed this.
Given the conflicting statements and the history of internal negotiations within the Congress party, the question of whether Shivakumar will become Chief Minister remains open. The coming months could be crucial in determining the future leadership of Karnataka. The Congress high command's decision will ultimately shape the direction of the state government.
