Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday sought to put an end to speculation over a possible leadership change in the state, asserting that he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah were “working together in complete coordination.” Dismissing all talk of political rivalry or mid-term transitions, Shivakumar said he was “very happy” with the current arrangement and questioned, “What is wrong if Siddaramaiah continues as Chief Minister?”
His remarks came amid growing chatter following Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan’s recent statement that Shivakumar could take over the top post after Siddaramaiah completes his five-year term in 2028. The comments reignited discussions of an alleged “November revolution” — a phrase coined by some Congress insiders to describe possible power shifts in the state.
Brushing aside such theories, Shivakumar said, “We are working as one team under the Congress banner. There is no confusion, no differences. The government is stable and focused on delivering results.”
Responding to media questions about Siddaramaiah’s upcoming visit to New Delhi on November 15, Shivakumar clarified that he too would be travelling to the capital, but for a different purpose. “I am going to attend a programme hosted by Rajya Sabha MP and senior advocate Kapil Sibal. He has represented me in several cases in Bengaluru and Delhi,” he said, adding that his visit was not linked to any political discussions.
On the possibility of a Cabinet reshuffle, Shivakumar maintained that it was the prerogative of the Chief Minister. “Cabinet expansion or reshuffle is Siddaramaiah’s responsibility. He has not discussed any such plan with me in my capacity as Karnataka Congress president,” he stated.
The Deputy CM also weighed in on the Bihar Assembly elections, dismissing exit polls that predicted a setback for the Congress-RJD Mahagathbandhan. “I don’t believe in these surveys. The Congress–RJD alliance will come to power in Bihar. Karnataka politics is driven by development and social progress — it won’t be affected by Bihar’s outcome,” he remarked.
