Amidst the rumors of leadership change in Karnataka, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar has ignited the conversation with his recent remark. Shivakumar stressed the importance of seizing opportunities whenever they arise. At the Kempegowda Jayanti event organized by the Bengaluru Advocates' Association, he said, 'We continually battle for seats. You (lawyers) are sitting far away, claiming not to need a seat. Come here and take one. It's difficult to get a seat. Learn to sit as soon as you get one. It seems you all are making sacrifices. There are such good chairs here – opportunities are few. When you get one, make use of it.'
Shivakumar's comment on holding onto the seat was met with laughter by attendees. Returning from Delhi, Shivakumar refused further comments, stating that Siddaramaiah has already clarified any confusion regarding Karnataka's leadership future by informing Congress high command's decision. However, amidst the ongoing power struggle with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, this indirect remark has sparked new speculation regarding the Congress government's leadership future in Karnataka. On Thursday, Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had dispelled leadership change rumors following a meeting with Congress National General Secretary and state in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala.
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Siddaramaiah told reporters in Bengaluru, 'Surjewala clearly stated there will be no change in leadership. The leadership issue is not under discussion. When he said this, why are there speculations? He is in charge of Karnataka, and when he says no speculation should be made, why is the media still speculating? There has been no internal party discussion on this.' Last month, in a show of solidarity, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had said alongside his deputy D.K. Shivakumar, 'Our relationship is good, no matter what anyone says.'
