Karnataka CM tussle: 'Keep mouth shut,' Shivakumar warns leaders

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar tells Congress members to 'keep their mouth shut' on leadership issues, as per AICC President Kharge's directive. He downplayed any rift with CM Siddaramaiah amid the ongoing power tussle for the top post.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday said that everyone in the Congress party must heed AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge's instructions to "keep their mouth shut" and not damage the party with their frequent statements on leadership.

Speaking to reporters at his Sadashivanagar residence amid the reports of power tussle for the CM post, Shivakumar said, "Any statement made by legislators, ministers or others in favour of me or against me will do more harm than good to the party. AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge had asked everyone to keep their mouth shut some time ago."

When asked about some Congress leaders expressing confidence that he would bring good news from Delhi, the Deputy CM said, "Every day is a good day for me. Every day is a day of good beginnings, good tidings and challenges. We face significant challenges in resolving day-to-day issues. We have to continue working in the midst of criticisms."

Shivakumar dismisses leadership confusion

Asked about demands for early closure of leadership confusion by the High Command, he said, "I don't have any confusion; others may have it. Siddaramaiah and I know what we have spoken about. There is no secrecy in that; our leaders are aware of it. Let others not take this tension. Issuing statements won't help anyone."

When pointed to MLA Iqbal Hussain's statement about him receiving a show cause notice for his comments on leadership change, while Yatindra Siddaramaiah got away, the DCM said, "We will ask the High command about it."

Delhi visit for key AICC meet

Asked about his meeting with High Command leaders in Delhi, he said, "When I go to Delhi, I meet all leaders I am able to. Parliament session is going on, I will meet them if time permits."

"There is a meeting at the AICC at 4 pm to discuss various upcoming elections and political situations. The election dates may be announced for some states, and hence I have been called to Delhi," he noted.

"I had gone to Kerala, and then I have to go to Assam too. I was unable to attend today's pre-budget meeting with the CM and have informed the CM. I had a meeting on Monday with the budget officials. They will hold discussions with the CM about the budget. I will take a briefing from them on the proceedings of the pre-budget meeting," he added.

Background of the tussle

The leadership tussle within the Karnataka Congress began in November 2025, when the government reached the halfway mark of its five-year term. Along with CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Home Minister G Parameshwara is also in the fray for the top post. (ANI)

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