No One Can Become CM Without Majority Support and High Command’s Blessings: Siddaramaiah
Karnataka CM dismisses ‘November revolution’ talk amid growing buzz over leadership change and cabinet reshuffle.
Bagalkote: Amid ongoing speculation of a leadership change in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday made it clear that no one can become Chief Minister without the support of the majority of party MLAs and the blessings of the Congress high command.
His remarks come at a time when political circles are abuzz with talk of a possible cabinet reshuffle and a change of guard as the Congress government approaches the halfway mark of its five-year term in November—an event some within the party have dubbed the “November revolution.”
Responding to media queries about these speculations, Siddaramaiah said, “I don’t want to respond to such things. The high command is the high command. The opinions of legislators and the high command are both important. Without majority support from MLAs, no one can become CM. The high command’s blessings are also required.”
The Chief Minister was reacting to a reported statement by Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, who had said that leadership changes can happen based on the high command’s decision, even without majority backing from legislators.
Asked directly about the “November revolution,” Siddaramaiah dismissed it sharply: “There is no kranti (revolution), no bhranti (delusion).”
Meanwhile, Home Minister G. Parameshwara, speaking in Bengaluru, backed Siddaramaiah’s comments. He explained that the Congress tradition has always involved the high command sending observers to assess MLAs’ opinions before selecting a leader for the legislature party or the Chief Minister post.
“This process was followed when Siddaramaiah became CM, both the first and second time. It was the same when S.M. Krishna was chosen. However, if the high command decides otherwise, that is their prerogative. Everyone will follow their decision,” Parameshwara said.
He acknowledged that there are multiple aspirants within the party for the top post. While Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are widely seen as the front-runners, others are also in contention “at the second or third level,” he added.
Despite persistent speculation, Siddaramaiah has repeatedly maintained that he intends to complete the full five-year term as Chief Minister.
Party insiders say Siddaramaiah’s camp is now pushing for a cabinet reshuffle, which would signal his continued control and send a message of stability. Such a move, just as the government crosses the 2.5-year milestone, would be interpreted as a clear indication that he is not stepping aside anytime soon—a development that could be seen as a political setback for Shivakumar, who is believed to be eyeing the Chief Minister’s post.
