Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday downplayed speculation over a possible change of leadership in Karnataka, asserting that he was “in no hurry” and that the party would take all decisions at the appropriate time.
Speaking to reporters at Palace Ground, Shivakumar said party workers may be eager to see him as chief minister, but he remained focused on his responsibilities. “The party workers may be eager, but I am in no hurry. The party will take all the decisions,” he said.
Responding to questions about a potential visit to Delhi with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the deputy CM said he may travel to the capital to address pending work. “I may be in Delhi, there is a lot of pending work.
The winter session of Parliament is starting, and I need to meet the MPs. By God’s grace, we have got justice from the Court on Mekedatu. Need to discuss the state’s irrigation projects with MPs. Will also discuss with the CM on calling for an all-party meeting,” he said.
Shivakumar also raised concerns over the Centre’s stance on maize procurement. He said the Centre had fixed the minimum support price for maize at Rs 2,400, while market rates were hovering between Rs 1,600 and Rs 1,800. “The Centre isn’t cooperating. We will appeal to the Centre to procure maize from farmers,” he added.
On whether he would visit the Congress office during his Delhi trip, he said, “The party office is our temple. The Delhi office gives us guidance and direction.”
Asked about the Vokkaliga community’s support for him, Shivakumar avoided linking his leadership ambitions to caste equations. “I don’t want to discuss the community angle, party is important for me. Congress is my community. I come from Vokkaliga community and they may love me. My commitment is for all communities, including backward classes, SC, ST and minorities. Vokkaligas are also backward classes,” he said.
He dismissed the BJP’s comments on his recent Mumbai visit, clarifying that it was purely personal. “I will not respond to BJP’s interpretation. One of my close friends is hospitalised, and I visited him for an hour and returned to Bengaluru,” he said.
– Ends
Published By:
Akshat Trivedi
Published On:
Nov 28, 2025
