When time comes, you will know: DK Shivakumar plays down Karnataka power tussle

DK Shivakumar dismissed reports of internal rifts within the Congress in Karnataka and said he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would abide by the high command's decision.

In Short

• DK Shivakumar denies internal Congress issues in Karnataka
• He pledges to follow high command decisions on leadership
• Backward class seer backs Shivakumar for Chief Minister post

Amid renewed buzz over internal differences within the ruling Congress in Karnataka and an apparent leadership tussle, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar sought to downplay it, asserting that there are no issues within the party and that he would abide by any decision taken by the high command.

“I do not speak about political issues before the media. When the time comes, all of you will know about it. As of now, there is no issue among us, no problem, and no politics involved. Whatever decisions have been taken will be implemented,” the senior Congress leader said.

His remarks come amid growing chatter within political circles about a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle as the government nears the midpoint of its tenure. Speculation has also been fuelled by the reported power-sharing arrangement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar at the time of government formation in 2023.

Responding to comments by senior minister Satish Jarkiholi, who had hinted at differences within the party and the need for intervention by the leadership, Shivakumar dismissed any discord, saying the party leadership “will do whatever needs to be done at the appropriate time.”

“Our party can do whatever it feels is necessary. There is no problem, we have faith in our party. They will do what needs to be done,” he added.

On questions about a possible change in leadership, Shivakumar reiterated that both he and the Chief Minister would abide by the party’s direction. “Both the Chief Minister and I have said that whenever the high command gives any instruction, we will follow it and act accordingly,” he said.

He declined to comment on whether any “good news” could be expected around his birthday on May 15, even as speculation continues over political developments in the state.

Separately, Shivakumar issued a strict warning to party workers against putting up flex banners or hoardings for his birthday celebrations. “No one should put up flexes or banners on my birthday. If anyone does, I will instruct civic authorities to take action. If necessary, they can publish advertisements instead. Do not spoil the beauty of roads,” he said.

He added that he has directed civic officials to impose heavy fines and register cases against those putting up unauthorised banners, regardless of their political affiliation.

Meanwhile, Pranavananda Swamiji, president of the forum of heads of the Most Backward Classes mutts, has openly backed DK Shivakumar for the top post.

Addressing reporters on Sunday, the seer urged the Congress high command to immediately appoint Shivakumar as Karnataka Chief Minister, claiming he had been promised the post by senior party leaders after leading the party to power in the state.

“We are not suggesting that the current Chief Minister is not a leader of the backward classes. However, it is being pointed out that he has already served as Chief Minister for nearly eight years. There is now a growing sentiment that leaders from other backward communities should also be given an opportunity. If this is not addressed, it could harm the Congress party in the state,” he said.

Pranavananda Swamiji warned that the Congress would face “serious consequences” in Karnataka if a leadership change does not take place, alleging that Shivakumar was being sidelined despite his contributions to the party.

He also announced that nearly 25 swamijis are planning to travel to New Delhi to press their demand before the Congress high command, following a meeting with Shivakumar in Sadashivanagar.

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