Last Updated:
Speaking to CNN-NEWS18, Shivakumar firmly stated that the Congress government in the state would face significant challenges without the veteran leader.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah (R) with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. (PTI/File)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has emphasised the crucial role of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s support and blessing for the Congress party’s future success in the state, not just in the upcoming 2028 elections but beyond. This comes even as a leadership change debate rages on in Karnataka with Siddaramaiah about to finish 2.5 years in office next month.
Speaking to CNN-NEWS18, Shivakumar firmly stated that the Congress government in the state would face significant challenges without the veteran leader.
“Without Siddaramaiah’s blessing and support, Congress party will find it difficult,” Shivakumar said, stressing the importance of the Chief Minister’s experience and backing.
The statement comes amid ongoing speculation regarding a power-sharing arrangement and the Chief Minister’s political future, particularly following Siddaramaiah’s remarks at the ‘Rising Karnataka summit’ where he hinted at a possible re-entry into electoral politics in 2028, despite earlier intentions to retire.
Need for the ‘Seasoned Politician’
Shivakumar was unequivocal in his support for the current Chief Minister, recognising his long political journey and value to the party. “Not just 2028, we need him further also if health permits. He is a seasoned politician. We need the Chief Minister. We need his support. Health permits, we need all to come back to power. He has been a DyCM, LoP and CM. Without his blessing and support, Congress party will find it difficult. We need him for the success of Congress government in Karnataka,” Shivakumar stated.
The Deputy CM also reiterated his alignment with the high command’s and Siddaramaiah’s decisions, especially concerning the Chief Minister’s continuation in politics. “What the party high command says and whatever he has said, I stand by him. We will all work together,” Shivakumar affirmed, responding to Siddaramaiah’s statement that he would continue till 2028 if the High Command instructed him to do so.
Siddaramaiah Hints at 2028 Contest
Earlier, at the ‘Rising Karnataka summit,’ Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had addressed the question of his future electoral participation and the internal dynamics of the party.
“I had said I won’t contest in 2028 elections. But all my friends are saying I should contest 2028 because it will help the party. I haven’t decided on it,” the Chief Minister revealed, leaving the door open for a final decision based on party needs.
On the recurring ‘power tussle’ rumours, Siddaramaiah maintained, “What high command says is final.” He also confirmed that a cabinet reshuffle could be on the cards, stating, “High command 3-4 months back asked for a reshuffle. I said let us do it after we finish 2.5 years in office. Now if high command gives permission we will do it.”
The Chief Minister also distanced himself from national-level politics, clarifying, “Not interested in national politics… I don’t want to do politics at national level.” He also noted that the ‘AHINDA’ plank (a Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes, and Dalits) is a broader concept: “AHINDA is not restricted to one political party. Any party that stands for social justice it will be.”
Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India’s space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi…Read More
Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India’s space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi… Read More
October 28, 2025, 14:31 IST
Read More
