Shivakumar meets Kharge, sparks speculations amid Karnataka leadership debate

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday met Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence here, triggering speculations about a possible shift in the state's chief ministerial leadership.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Shivakumar clarified that the discussion was not political. He said he had shared his thoughts with Kharge , in his capacity as state unit chief, on the recently enacted VB-G RAM G Act , which replaces the MGNREGA , ahead of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting scheduled for December 27.

"There is no need to discuss any other issue, and I will not do it. Siddaramaiah and I have agreed to work following the high command's decision, and we remain committed to it," Shivakumar said.

On his statement about remaining a party worker, he added, "I am a lifetime worker of the party. Whether holding a post or not, I serve the organisation. I have worked at every level, from pasting posters to organising events, not just making speeches."

The meeting comes amid growing speculation over a leadership change in Karnataka, as the Congress government recently crossed the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20.

Earlier, Kharge had remarked that the confusion over leadership in the Karnataka unit exists only at the local level and that local leaders should resolve internal disputes rather than blaming the high command. Commenting on this, Shivakumar said, "As a senior leader, he has given his guidance."

Regarding a possible trip to Delhi, the Deputy CM said, "I have not been called so far, but if the party requires, I will go." He noted that while Siddaramaiah has been invited for the CWC meeting, deputy CMs are generally not included.

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have reportedly reached an understanding regarding the leadership, with the backing of the Congress high command. The CWC meeting on December 27 will focus on the newly introduced VB-G RAM G Act , replacing the MGNREGA .

Criticising the central government, Shivakumar said, "Removing Mahatma Gandhi's name from MGNREGA undermines rural development. The new law requires a 40 per cent contribution from states, which even BJP-ruled states cannot afford. It is detrimental to the poor, labourers, and farmers. We will mobilise panchayat members and MGNREGA workers to restore the scheme and protect rural livelihoods."