DK Shivakumar in Delhi as Karnataka leadership speculation heats up

In Delhi, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar held a string of high-level discussions with senior Congress leaders, fueling fresh speculation about the state’s leadership. The meetings with key figures included Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi and a separate session with party chief Mallikarjun Kharge and general secretary KC Venugopal, per people aware of the matter. Shivakumar was tight-lipped about the agenda, saying, “We are politicians and we will discuss politics... I have not come here to enjoy Delhi weather.” When pressed on whether the leadership change, including the chief minister’s post, had been raised, he avoided a direct answer, adding, “Time will tell everything,” and noting that he had “always succeeded in whatever I do or wish for. I might have to struggle but success will ultimately come to me.” He later clarified that the question of his elevation as chief minister had not been discussed with the central leadership and pointed to the party’s broader vision and goals, saying, “The party leadership and seniors will take a call whenever they feel fit in the interest of Karnataka and the party.” He also rejected suggestions of internal friction within the state government, attributing any tension to the BJP instead. The meetings come as the Congress government in Karnataka prepares to mark 1,000 days in office, with plans for an additional welfare measure tied to housing. The party has talked about extending Bhoomi guarantees and issuing khatas to everyone who has built houses, signaling a continued push on welfare initiatives even as leadership speculation remains unresolved.

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