Amidst ongoing speculation about a potential change in leadership in Karnataka, a Congress MLA has stated that a change in Chief Minister needs to happen soon. This statement adds fuel to the rumors surrounding a possible power shift between current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy, DK Shivakumar.

Several Congress MLAs have publicly voiced their support for DK Shivakumar to be given an opportunity to lead the state. Magadi MLA HC Balakrishna stated that Shivakumar has also worked hard to bring the party to power and should be considered for the Chief Minister's post. Similarly, MLA Basavaraj Shivaganga expressed his support for Shivakumar as the future Chief Minister. Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain has gone as far as to say that Shivakumar will "definitely" become Chief Minister. He also declared that the Congress party would secure over 140 seats in the next assembly election and form the government under Shivakumar's leadership.

These statements have stirred the pot, leading to responses from within the party. Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna hinted at significant political developments after September. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara acknowledged these statements as individual opinions and advised restraint, noting that the All India Congress Committee may look into the matter. He also cautioned that such statements could blur party discipline if unchecked.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the speculation, stating that replacing the Chief Minister is in the hands of the high command and that the party's top brass has the power to take further action. He also urged party members not to create unnecessary problems. Meanwhile, Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala has dismissed the rumors of a leadership change, calling them a figment of imagination.

The current political climate in Karnataka is further complicated by reports of a potential power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, though no formal confirmation has ever been provided. According to these reports, Shivakumar would take over the leadership after two-and-a-half years.

Amidst the speculation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reassured the public that he and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar maintain a good relationship. However, the repeated calls for a change in leadership suggest that the issue is far from settled. The coming months could prove crucial in determining the future of Karnataka's leadership.