‘Efforts May Fail, But Not Prayers’: Shivakumar Plays Down CM Speculation, Puts Faith in Party Unity

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Last Updated:July 04, 2025, 14:03 IST

After the 2023 polls, a fierce tug-of-war between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the top job had ended with a compromise, positioning Shivakumar as Deputy CM.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Friday sidestepped speculation over a potential leadership change in the state, choosing instead to stress party discipline and unity under the guidance of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Speaking after offering prayers to Goddess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, Shivakumar remarked, “Efforts may fail, but not prayers," signalling hope but offering no confirmation on whether he remains in the race to become Chief Minister.

His comments come amid renewed political chatter about a possible mid-term shift in power between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, following reports of a pre-arranged rotational formula post the Congress’s 2023 Assembly win. While Siddaramaiah recently asserted he would serve a full five-year term, Shivakumar downplayed any perceived rivalry, saying, “I don’t want any discussions now… Let’s all work together, abiding by the message given by Congress President Kharge."

When pressed on his political ambitions, the Karnataka Congress president remained cautious but philosophical: “I have prayed to the Goddess and wished for whatever I want. I believe in prayers." He emphasised that his focus was on the state’s welfare and reiterated his loyalty to the party’s high command, even hinting that he had “no option" but to follow directives.

After the 2023 polls, a fierce tug-of-war between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the top job had ended with a compromise, positioning Shivakumar as Deputy CM. While some reports had hinted at a two-and-a-half-year rotational arrangement, the Congress party has never formally confirmed such a deal. Shivakumar’s recent statements suggest he may be laying low for now — but not backing away entirely.

(With inputs from PTI)

Abhro Banerjee

Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ...Read More

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