Shivakumar Says He and Siddaramaiah Will Follow Congress High Command on Leadership Decision

D K Shivakumar on Sunday said that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will accept any decision taken by the Congress high command regarding the state’s leadership.

Speaking to reporters after returning from New Delhi, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president expressed confidence in the party’s top leadership. He said the high command would take the right decision at the appropriate time and that he has complete faith in its judgment.

His remarks come amid ongoing speculation about a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle in the state. The discussions have gained momentum ahead of May 4, when results for assembly elections in four states and one union territory, along with bypolls in two Karnataka assembly constituencies, are expected.

When asked about his recent meetings with party leaders in Delhi, Shivakumar chose not to share details. He maintained that political matters would be addressed at the right time and reiterated that there are no internal issues within the party.

Responding to comments by senior minister Satish Jarkiholi about possible differences within the party, Shivakumar dismissed such claims. He said the leadership would handle matters as needed and insisted that the party remains united.

On the question of a leadership change as the government nears three years in office, Shivakumar said the matter has never been discussed by him. He added that both he and the Chief Minister have clearly stated they will stand by whatever decision the high command makes.

He also avoided commenting on whether any major political development could coincide with his birthday on May 15.

Speculation around a leadership shift has persisted since the Congress government reached the halfway mark of its five-year term in November 2025. Reports of a power-sharing understanding between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar at the time of government formation in 2023 have further fueled these discussions.

Meanwhile, addressing criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party over the government’s decision on internal reservation for Scheduled Castes, Shivakumar defended the move. He said the previous BJP government failed to act on the issue, while the Congress has delivered on its promise by attempting to ensure fairness across communities.

In a separate appeal, Shivakumar urged his supporters not to put up flex banners or advertisements for his birthday on May 15. He warned that strict action would be taken against anyone violating this request and said he has instructed civic authorities to impose fines and register cases if such displays are found.