The political landscape of Karnataka is currently buzzing with speculation about potential leadership changes within the ruling Congress party. Recent statements by Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna have fueled discussions about the possibility of a new Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and even a change in Chief Minister.

Rajanna, a close associate of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, suggested that Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi could replace Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as the KPCC president. Rajanna stated that such a change is "bound to happen," though the timing remains uncertain. He clarified that the final decision rests with the party's high command. This statement has stirred internal discussions within the Congress party, especially since Shivakumar currently holds the KPCC president's position. Some party leaders have been advocating for a change in KPCC leadership, citing the "one man, one post" policy, as Shivakumar is already serving as the Deputy Chief Minister.

Adding to the speculation, Ramanagara Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain claimed that DK Shivakumar is slated to replace Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister, referencing an agreement made at the high command level when the party initially came to power. Hussain stated that senior leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge decided on a leadership change after Siddaramaiah completes two-and-a-half years in office. He rebuffed claims from Siddaramaiah's son, Dr. Yathindra, that the high command has not issued any instructions regarding a change in leadership. Hussain believes that Shivakumar's contributions to the party warrant the opportunity to lead, possibly within the next few months.

However, these claims contradict earlier reports where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself dismissed speculations of his replacement. Siddaramaiah has downplayed the reports, asserting that his position is secure and accusing journalists of "speculative journalism".

Meanwhile, Rajanna has also alluded to potential changes within the BJP and even at the central level, suggesting that political shifts are not exclusive to the Congress. He mentioned the expectation in the BJP for leaders above 75 years of age to step down from power, referencing the case of senior leader LK Advani.

Previously, there were reports of Rahul Gandhi being unhappy with the Karnataka Congress leadership, particularly after the Bengaluru stampede incident. This led to discussions about a major reshuffle in Karnataka, with possibilities of DK Shivakumar and G Parameshwara losing key portfolios. There were also reports of some ministers lobbying the high command to replace Shivakumar as KPCC president, arguing that he wouldn't be able to dedicate enough attention to upcoming local body elections while also serving as Deputy Chief Minister. However, the Congress leadership in Delhi seemed hesitant to make any changes, wary of causing instability before the elections.

While the exact course of events remains uncertain, it is clear that the political atmosphere in Karnataka is charged with anticipation. The Congress high command's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the state's leadership and direction.