Shivakumar’s Delhi Visit Sparks Buzz Amid Karnataka Congress Unease

New Delhi/Bengaluru, April 2026 : Amid ongoing unease within the ruling Congress in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar held a series of meetings with senior party leaders in the national capital, fuelling fresh speculation about internal developments. However, maintaining a guarded stance, Shivakumar declined to disclose details of his interactions, stating firmly that he would not make them public.

“I have met party leaders. I will continue doing my work, but I will not reveal who I have met. I have not come to Delhi just to enjoy the air,” he said, hinting that his visit was purposeful but offering no specifics.

Speaking to reporters in New Delhi late Thursday night, Shivakumar clarified that part of his visit was linked to his recent campaign responsibilities in other states. “I toured Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Assam for election campaigns. I need to brief our leaders about the developments in these states. The party had entrusted me with that responsibility,” he said. He reiterated that managing elections in Karnataka remains his primary duty as both KPCC President and Deputy Chief Minister.

When questioned about potential political changes in the state, including a possible cabinet reshuffle, Shivakumar avoided direct answers. “Being in a responsible position, can I discuss such matters in front of the media? I will not speak about this. Please do not try to extract such information from me,” he said, reinforcing his cautious approach.

His comments come against the backdrop of reports suggesting dissatisfaction within sections of the party, including concerns raised by members of the minority community. Acknowledging this, Shivakumar said, “We have received some inputs at the party level. We must all work together,” signalling an attempt to maintain unity while addressing internal concerns.

On reports that some ministers close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had held separate meetings, Shivakumar distanced himself from such developments. “I have no information about it. I don’t know who is close to whom. I don’t bother about such meetings,” he said, downplaying factional narratives.

Speculation has also been rife about senior MLAs planning a visit to Delhi to push for a cabinet reshuffle. When asked about this, Shivakumar responded cautiously: “Let’s wait and watch,” neither confirming nor denying the reports.

Beyond Karnataka, Shivakumar expressed optimism about the Congress party’s prospects in other states. Referring to recently concluded Assembly elections and bypolls, he said the party had worked extensively on the ground. “We will form the government in alliance in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Our leaders and workers have worked very hard in Assam, and the response to our alliance has been positive,” he asserted.

He also revealed that internal review processes were already underway, including virtual meetings to assess performance. “We even held a Zoom meeting on the Assam elections on Wednesday. I will be visiting Assam again,” he added.

Providing further context to his Delhi trip, Shivakumar said he had travelled from Hyderabad after a brief personal visit and had scheduled meetings with Union ministers to discuss key issues concerning Bengaluru. Notably, he confirmed an appointment with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. “I need to discuss Bengaluru-related issues with Union ministers. I had sought an appointment, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given me time at 11.45 a.m. on Friday,” he said.

Addressing concerns raised by minority leaders, Shivakumar struck a conciliatory tone. “They have expressed their feelings and opinions, which is not wrong. Sometimes what we say may not be right; sometimes what they say may not be right. We will sit together and discuss,” he said, indicating openness to dialogue.

On the issue of alleged suspensions of certain Muslim leaders, he clarified that there had been no formal disciplinary action. “Whom have we suspended? They themselves have resigned from their positions. Please examine what is written in the resignation letter,” he said.

While Shivakumar remained tight-lipped on sensitive political questions, his visit to Delhi and interactions with party leadership have intensified speculation about possible recalibrations within the Karnataka Congress. For now, however, he appears focused on balancing organisational responsibilities, governance priorities, and internal cohesion amid a complex political landscape.