“I will remain chief minister, yes. What’s causing your doubts? Dismissing rumors of an impending change in leadership from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular), Siddaramaiah questioned reporters on Wednesday.
Shivakumar declared shortly afterward that he had “no other option” but to back Siddaramaiah.
Shivakumar Stands Firm Behind Siddaramaiah Amid Leadership Buzz
In the midst of swirling speculation about a change in leadership within the Karnataka Congress, DK Shivakumar has reiterated his support for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, signaling party unity above personal ambition.
“What option do I have? I have to stand by him and support him,” Shivakumar said when asked about the leadership issue. He further added, “I don’t have any objection to it, whatever the party high command says and whatever they decide, it will be fulfilled.”
Shivakumar maintained that his focus remains on party strength, stating, “I don’t want to discuss anything now. Lakhs of workers are supporting this party.”
Despite growing whispers that a section of Congress legislators are pushing for a leadership change, with many seeing Shivakumar as a strong contender for the chief minister’s post, the Karnataka Congress president remains publicly committed to the current leadership.
Dismissing all rumors of internal strife, Shivakumar clarified, “There is no discord or unhappiness among legislators.” He explained that current efforts are aimed at “giving out responsibility and fixing accountability among MLAs.”
“I will give notice to Iqbal [Hussain] and anyone else who talks out of line,” he warned, sending a strong message against undisciplined public statements.
As leadership chatter continues behind closed doors, Shivakumar’s public posture is one of loyalty and discipline—a clear attempt to project unity and silence speculation.