D.K. Shivakumar Responds Calmly to CM Post Speculations, Party Reiterates High Command Authority

Bengaluru/Belagavi, Dec 2025 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar reacted to recent remarks by MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah regarding the Chief Minister’s post, saying he was “very happy” and wished for all matters to proceed smoothly. Yathindra had stated on Monday that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would complete his full term and that the Congress high command had turned down Shivakumar’s claims to the position.

Speaking in Bengaluru before departing for Belagavi on Tuesday, Shivakumar remarked, “Very happy. Let everything be good, let it be good for the state,” when questioned about Yathindra’s comments. His response appeared calm and measured, emphasizing stability over speculation.

Upon his arrival at Sambra Airport in Belagavi to participate in the winter session of the state legislature, Shivakumar was welcomed enthusiastically by supporters who raised slogans in his favor, chanting “Shivakumar next CM.” Party insiders said this reaction stemmed from Yathindra’s statement made a day earlier, reaffirming Siddaramaiah’s tenure as Chief Minister.

In a related development, Congress MLC Channaraj Hattiholi posted a message on social media welcoming the Deputy Chief Minister to Belagavi, referring to him as “Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar,” which drew attention and fueled speculation. Channaraj, who is the brother of Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, a close associate of Shivakumar, clarified that with both CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar pledging to follow the high command’s directives, Yathindra’s comments were unnecessary. He added, “When the high command has said it will take an appropriate decision, we need to wait until then.”

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy also weighed in, stating that there was no confusion within the party and that all decisions by the high command would be final. On queries about Yathindra’s repeated remarks on leadership matters, Reddy emphasized the need for leaders to exercise caution and responsibility while addressing the public.

Yathindra Siddaramaiah had earlier dismissed reports of a leadership tussle, asserting that those predicting a change in the Chief Minister’s post were “dreaming.” He noted that Deputy CM Shivakumar had expressed his aspirations for the CM position, but the high command clarified that it was not the appropriate time for any change. Yathindra added, “The matter ends there. Hence, there is no tussle anymore. Opposition parties are unnecessarily spreading rumours and creating perceptions.”

When asked about speculations that CM Siddaramaiah might resign after the Belagavi session, Yathindra reiterated, “They have been saying this for many years. They keep claiming the CM will be changed this year or that year. They must be dreaming.”

With both senior leaders and the high command emphasizing stability, the Congress appears focused on maintaining unity while addressing internal and external speculations regarding Karnataka’s leadership.