Amidst swirling speculation regarding a change in leadership in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has asserted the stability of his government, stating firmly that it "will last for 5 years like a rock". This declaration comes at a time when murmurs within the Congress party and comments from some of its members have fueled rumors of a potential shift in power.

The Chief Minister's firm stance is echoed by his son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, a Member of the Legislative Council, who has dismissed the rumors and affirmed that his father enjoys the full support of the party high command and legislators. He stated that Siddaramaiah will complete his five-year term, attributing the repeated comments about a change to "certain factions that want to become CM".

Adding to the speculation, Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna had earlier hinted at "revolutionary political developments" in Karnataka after September, further intensifying the buzz surrounding a possible leadership change. However, Siddaramaiah has downplayed these comments, suggesting they should be ignored.

Adding another layer to the narrative, Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain, a known loyalist of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, has predicted that Shivakumar will assume the Chief Minister's position within the next few months, citing an agreement made at the high command level. This statement has further fueled the speculation of a power shift.

In an attempt to quell the unrest and assess the internal sentiment, Congress general secretary in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, is currently holding meetings with party legislators. This move is widely seen as an effort to gauge the mood within the party and address any grievances.

Amidst these swirling rumors, the issue of a Dalit Chief Minister has also resurfaced. Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara's recent meetings with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have led to speculation that Siddaramaiah might support Parameshwara as his successor to maintain influence if he cannot continue as Chief Minister. Food and Civil Supplies Minister KH Muniyappa has downplayed the Dalit CM issue, calling it stale.

Despite the internal chatter, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have presented a united front, attempting toProject an image of unity and dispel any notions of a rift between them. In a public display of camaraderie, Siddaramaiah reached out and took Shivakumar's hand, raising it in the air, a symbolic gesture aimed at reassuring the public of their cordial relationship. Siddaramaiah stated, "We both are on good terms, no matter who says what".

The Karnataka Congress government has faced persistent questions regarding power-sharing arrangements and leadership transition. The coming weeks, particularly the month of September, are expected to be crucial in determining the future political landscape of the state.