Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, July 2, sent a clear and firm message to party members pushing for Deputy CM DK Shivakumar to take over the top post. Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah asserted, “I will be the Chief Minister for five years. Why should there be any doubt?”
His remarks come amid growing support from certain Congress legislators for DK Shivakumar to eventually assume the Chief Minister’s role. Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress president, distanced himself from such demands, stating that he has not encouraged anyone to campaign on his behalf and warned of disciplinary action against those making public statements on the issue.
“Everyone has worked hard. I’m not the only one – hundreds, even lakhs of party workers have contributed to our success. We must prioritize their efforts,” Shivakumar said.
He added that he has “no option” but to stand by Siddaramaiah and support him. “I have to support him. I have no objections. Whatever the party high command decides, I will abide by it. I don’t wish to discuss anything further. Our focus should remain on the lakhs of dedicated party workers,” he stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister also dismissed any notion of internal rifts, affirming that there is “no disgruntlement” within the party under Siddaramaiah’s leadership.
