Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday, 20 May firmly brushed aside speculation about a leadership change in the state, pointedly questioning why former Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna — a known loyalist of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah — was publicly raising the prospect of replacing the incumbent.

The Rajanna Factor

Rajanna, who was dropped from the Cabinet following remarks that reportedly contradicted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's position on 'vote chori', has been batting for a Dalit Chief Minister in the event of any leadership transition. His name of choice is Home Minister G. Parameshwara, a prominent Dalit leader in the state. Rajanna has also indirectly alleged that Shivakumar was behind his removal from the Cabinet.

Responding to media queries about Rajanna's remarks, Shivakumar was pointed. 'Why is Rajanna talking about changing the Chief Minister?' he asked, with a note of sarcasm. 'There is nothing wrong in saying the Chief Minister should continue. But if he says Parameshwara should become Chief Minister, does it not mean the current Chief Minister should step down?'

Shivakumar Distances Himself

The Deputy Chief Minister was unequivocal in distancing himself from any push for change at the top. 'I have never said anywhere that the Chief Minister should be changed. Rajanna himself is talking about changing the Chief Minister. You should ask him about it,' Shivakumar said. When pressed on whether Rajanna's comments reflected unmet demands, he said he was unaware of the specifics.

On questions about unresolved issues at the Apex Bank and the Karnataka Milk Federation, Shivakumar declined to comment, directing reporters to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah instead. Similarly, on Cabinet expansion and legislators pressing for ministerial berths, he said, 'The Chief Minister has already stated that Cabinet expansion will be carried out. You should ask him about it.'

Congress Meeting at George's Residence

Shivakumar confirmed that a meeting of Congress leaders was held at the residence of Minister K.J. George, describing it as a discussion on state politics and strengthening the party organisation. When asked whether the 'chair' — a reference to the Chief Ministership — was on the agenda, he deflected: 'You are the ones creating all these stories, go ahead.'

On whether he was seeking political compensation for his years of work for the party, Shivakumar said, 'Did I really struggle? I have not asked anyone for any reward.' He added that he would travel to Delhi to meet Rahul Gandhi only when called: 'He has said he will call me. I will go when I am called.'

Other Developments

On the Greater Bengaluru Authority elections, Shivakumar noted that the Supreme Court had directed polls to be held before 30 August, and that election authorities would complete the process within the stipulated timeline after consulting officials.

Regarding the collapse of a compound wall at Bowring Hospital — where reports recommended suspension of Assistant Engineers and Assistant Executive Engineers for negligence — Shivakumar clarified that the hospital falls under the Public Works Department. 'A large quantity of soil was dumped there without strengthening the compound wall, which led to the collapse. BBMP engineers are not involved in this issue. I will discuss the matter with the Public Works Department Minister and the Chief Minister,' he said.

On reported clashes among Youth Congress office-bearers, Shivakumar downplayed the situation but issued a warning: 'There is no major clash. Those displaying indiscipline will be removed.'

With the Congress government in Karnataka navigating internal pressures on multiple fronts, how the party manages the Rajanna episode — and the broader Dalit CM demand — will be a key test of its cohesion ahead of future electoral cycles.