Image Credit: X account @siddaramaiah
Siddaramaiah Dismisses Talk of Leadership Change
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has denied any possibility of a leadership change within the state government. Addressing the media, he firmly stated that there is no vacancy for the Chief Minister’s post and confirmed he would continue to serve the full five-year term. He also clarified that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has made no claims to the top post and has himself acknowledged Siddaramaiah’s leadership.
Power-Sharing Speculation Rejected
Rumours of a 50-50 power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have been doing the rounds, particularly since the Congress returned to power last year. However, Siddaramaiah dismissed the speculation, saying there was no such deal, and called the reports baseless. He emphasised that the party leadership had entrusted him with the mandate, and there has been no change in that decision.
Congress Leadership Shows Unity
Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar recently held meetings with the Congress high command in Delhi. Following the meeting, both leaders spoke in unison, rejecting any internal rift and highlighting their shared commitment to the party’s governance agenda in Karnataka. Their statements were seen as an attempt to present a united front ahead of the 2028 state elections.
Ministers and Opposition Add to Buzz
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara also addressed the media, calling the leadership change rumours unnecessary drama. He reiterated that the party is focused on delivering good governance, not leadership struggles. Meanwhile, BJP leader B Sriramulu added fuel to the speculation, claiming that a two-and-a-half-year power-sharing deal had been made. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have denied any such agreement.
Internal Pressure Grows
While the top Congress leadership appears united, there is still pressure building within sections of the party, with some MLAs openly calling for Shivakumar to be made Chief Minister. For now, however, the official line remains that Siddaramaiah will lead the government until the next election.
