Congress Leadership Row: Shivakumar Reaffirms Faith In High Command, Rules Out Rift

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will abide by any decision taken by the Congress high command on leadership matters in the state, amid ongoing speculation over a possible change or cabinet reshuffle.

Speaking to reporters after returning from Delhi, Shivakumar, who is also the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president , said he has full faith in the party leadership and is confident that it will take an appropriate decision at the right time.

“I will not speak about political issues before the media. I have already said that when the time comes you will get to know,” he said, declining to elaborate on his discussions with the party leadership during his recent visit to the national capital.

He maintained that there were no internal differences within the Congress , adding that whatever decisions have already been taken will be implemented accordingly. “There are no issues, we have faith in our party, they will do what they have to,” he said.

Responding to comments attributed to senior minister Satish Jarkiholi about internal differences, Shivakumar dismissed any suggestion of discord. “Nothing like that. They (the high command) will do what they have to do at the appropriate time,” he said.

On speculation regarding leadership change as the government approaches a key milestone in its term, Shivakumar reiterated that both he and the Chief Minister would accept whatever decision the party leadership takes. “I have never discussed this issue. The CM and I have both said that we will accept whatever and whenever the high command decides,” he said.

He also declined to comment on speculation about any political developments around his birthday on May 15. The leadership debate has gained traction amid reports of a possible power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar during government formation in 2023.

On internal reservation for Scheduled Castes, Shivakumar said the government has fulfilled its promise and attempted to ensure justice across communities.

Separately, he urged party workers not to put up flex banners or advertisements for his birthday, warning that authorities should take action if such displays appear, including registration of cases and imposition of fines.