Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar on Friday stressed that there are “no differences” between them, amid ongoing speculation about a possible leadership change in the state.
The two leaders addressed the media together after a breakfast meeting at the chief minister’s residence — a meeting aimed at easing tensions linked to an alleged “rotational chief minister” agreement from 2023.
Siddaramaiah: ‘Our focus is on the 2028 elections’
Speaking at the joint press conference, Siddaramaiah said the discussions centred on the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections and upcoming local body polls.
“There are no differences between us, and there will be none in the future. Our agenda is the 2028 elections. We discussed strengthening Congress and bringing the party back with full public support,” he said, as quoted by ANI.
He added that both he and his deputy were aligned in their priorities. “We will continue working together,” he said.
The speculation around a leadership shift intensified after November 20, marking two and a half years of the Congress government’s term — the midpoint that allegedly formed part of the supposed rotational arrangement.
High Command Will Decide, Say Both Leaders
Siddaramaiah clarified that the leadership issue rests entirely with the Congress high command.
“We have decided to follow whatever the high command says. There is no confusion. Some reports have created unnecessary speculation,” he said.
A meeting involving senior Congress leaders — including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge — is expected to take place on Sunday, November 30, to discuss the political situation in Karnataka.
Shivakumar: ‘We are working together, there is no groupism’
Reaffirming the chief minister’s remarks, Shivakumar said that he and Siddaramaiah remain united in their efforts to run the government effectively.
“With the support of the people, we brought the Congress government to power. We are committed to fulfilling our promises. Whatever the high command decides, we will follow it,” he said.
He added that there is “no groupism” within the party and that he stands firmly with the chief minister.
What Triggered the Leadership Speculation?
For the past two months, discussions have surfaced about a potential shift in leadership. Siddaramaiah has previously stated that he received a mandate to serve a full five-year term. Shivakumar, meanwhile, has suggested that he was told he would assume the chief minister’s post after two and a half years.
The public meeting between the two leaders comes as the Congress aims to project unity ahead of critical electoral cycles.
