Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has signalled that he may step down as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President, stressing that organisational responsibilities should be shared and fresh opportunities must be given to other leaders. His comments came during a party event on Wednesday, held to mark former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
Shivakumar hints at transition in party leadership
Addressing party workers, Shivakumar said the question of whether he remains in his current position “is immaterial”, emphasising that his focus is on strengthening the party’s grassroots infrastructure. He reiterated his commitment to building at least 100 Congress offices across Karnataka, saying that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) had asked him to identify MLAs who are keen to contribute to this plan and those who are not.
“Some have shown interest, some have not, some want only power,” he remarked, adding that the process of finalising the list is underway. He insisted that the work of building new party offices would continue irrespective of whether he remains KPCC chief.
‘I cannot be KPCC chief permanently’
Responding to concerns from party workers over the uncertainty surrounding his tenure, Shivakumar stated that leadership roles cannot be held indefinitely.
“I have completed five-and-a-half years. In March, it will be six years. There must be an opportunity for others to come,” he said.
He assured cadres that he would continue to remain in a senior leadership role even if relieved of the KPCC presidency. “I will be there on the frontline. Where I am is not important,” he said, calling on workers to remain united and confident about the party’s prospects in the next Assembly elections.
Past speculation over his resignation
Shivakumar was appointed KPCC President in May 2020. He had intended to resign from the post when he became Deputy Chief Minister in May 2023, but was persuaded by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi to continue.
The renewed speculation comes at a time when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Congress leadership in Delhi are holding discussions on a possible leadership reshuffle as the government completes the halfway mark of its five-year term.
Aspirants eye the KPCC post
Several leaders considered close to Siddaramaiah — including Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi and former Minister K N Rajanna — have openly expressed interest in taking over as KPCC President. Their statements have fuelled speculation of an imminent organisational change.
Shivakumar, however, has repeatedly denied rumours that he is dissatisfied or preparing to exit abruptly. Earlier this month, he said he remained a “disciplined soldier” of the Congress and would never resort to pressurising the party for positions.
“I have built this party and worked tirelessly day and night. Our party will return to power in 2028,” he had said.
Leadership discussions ahead of cabinet reshuffle
The timing of Shivakumar’s latest remarks is significant. They come just a day after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi, sparking talk of a cabinet reshuffle and a broader restructuring of the state unit. Party insiders believe the Congress high command may use the halfway point of the government’s tenure to assess performance, recalibrate responsibilities and prepare for the next electoral cycle.
Conclusion
As internal discussions gain momentum, Shivakumar’s comments appear to set the stage for a smooth transition rather than a confrontation. While leadership changes in the KPCC now seem increasingly likely, he has made it clear that he will remain an influential figure within the party’s strategic framework, regardless of formal designation.