Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has addressed speculation surrounding his recent visit to Delhi, asserting that it was purely personal and not an attempt to lobby for the top post. He emphasized his commitment to following Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s lead, particularly regarding the latter’s statement about completing a full five-year term if the Congress high command approves.
Shivakumar explained that his trip was to offer condolences to Congress Working Committee member Ambika Soni following her husband’s passing, highlighting a long-standing personal relationship that began when Soni visited him during his Tihar jail stay. He dismissed any implications of political maneuvering, stating, “The public and media can discuss anything about my meeting with the high command; it doesn’t concern me.”
These remarks come as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself reiterated his adherence to the Congress high command’s decisions on any potential Cabinet reshuffles. Home Minister G. Parameshwara also weighed in, stating that only the central leadership can determine changes in leadership or the Cabinet’s composition, and that any statements from legislators on the matter are irrelevant until the high command makes an announcement.
Parameshwara suggested that more clarity on the leadership situation might emerge after the Bihar election results, as both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are expected to meet with the Congress leadership in Delhi. He also noted that no specific tenure was fixed for Siddaramaiah when he was appointed CLP leader, and that any decision by the high command would be respected.
The ongoing speculation, dubbed the “November revolution” by some insiders, has intensified as the government approaches the halfway mark of its term. Parameshwara urged the high command to resolve the uncertainty. Regarding the discussion about a potential Dalit chief minister, Parameshwara commented that such demands are not wrong and that the Congress has many capable leaders, but the final decision rests with the high command.
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka predicted that a leadership change is imminent, stating that the BJP’s predictions of a “November revolution” are accurate.