D K Shivakumar says happy to continue as Deputy CM

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Wednesday dismissed speculation over a leadership change in the state, asserting that there is no chief ministerial row and that he is content to continue in his present role.

Addressing the media at Karnataka Bhawan in New Delhi, Shivakumar said reports about internal differences within the Congress or meetings with the party’s high command existed only in the media. He categorically denied holding discussions on a possible leadership change or a rotational chief ministership in Karnataka.

“I am not meeting anyone in the AICC high command. I am happy to continue as the Deputy Chief Minister. I love to be a party worker,” he said, responding to repeated questions from reporters.

Emphasising that leadership decisions rest entirely with the Congress party, Shivakumar said speculation over names should be avoided. “Any day, the Congress party can take a decision. Whatever the leadership decides will be accepted,” he added.

On queries related to Priyanka Gandhi’s role or speculation about her as a prime ministerial candidate, Shivakumar said he was not aware of such matters. “My leader is the AICC president, and my leader of opposition is Rahul Gandhi,” he said.

He also declined to comment on issues such as air pollution, stating that he did not wish to speak on matters outside his brief. When asked about the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka, Shivakumar advised reporters to approach Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that his visit to the national capital was purely administrative and not political. He said he was in New Delhi to meet Union Ministers on state-related issues, including irrigation and urban development.

“I have not come here for politics. I do not want to comment on other political issues which are not on the cards now,” Shivakumar said.

The renewed speculation comes as the Karnataka government recently crossed the halfway mark of its term, reviving rumours of a “two-and-a-half-year” power-sharing arrangement. However, Shivakumar categorically rejected any such discussions.