DK Shivakumar says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, the Congress high command, and he are bound by an understanding, dismissing power-sharing rumours.

The ongoing leadership chatter within the Karnataka Congress took a calmer note on Friday, with Deputy Chief Minister and state party chief D. K. Shivakumar asserting that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah are firmly aligned with the party high command.

Responding to Siddaramaiah’s statement in the Assembly that no half-term power-sharing arrangement existed, Shivakumar said he had never challenged the Chief Minister’s five-year mandate. Speaking to reporters in Karwar after temple visits, he stressed that the Chief Minister, the Congress leadership, and he himself are “bound by an understanding” and will act strictly as per party directions.

Shivakumar dismissed talk of an imminent leadership change as media-driven speculation, reiterating that no such discussion is taking place within the party. He underlined that Siddaramaiah continues as Chief Minister because of the backing of the Congress high command, adding that the leadership issue remains an internal matter.

When asked about his personal aspirations during the temple visit, Shivakumar declined to comment, calling his prayers a private affair. Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah had reiterated on the Assembly floor that he would complete the full term, ruling out any power-sharing formula.

The statements from both leaders signal an attempt to cool speculation and project unity amid persistent rumours. For the Congress, maintaining internal discipline in Karnataka is crucial, especially with governance and electoral performance under constant public scrutiny.