I'm a disciplined soldier: DK Shivakumar dismisses leadership change in Karnataka

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday once again played down speculation about a possible change in leadership in the state, popularly dubbed the 'November Revolution', declaring himself a "disciplined soldier" of the Congress and reaffirming that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will complete his full term. Emphasising unity within the party, Shivakumar said he would abide by whatever decision the Congress high command takes.

Speaking to reporters before his visit to Delhi, Shivakumar said there was no discussion about any cabinet reshuffle or leadership change, asserting that such decisions rest entirely with the party leadership.

"I am not going to meet anybody. I have not discussed anything about the cabinet reshuffle. The rest is the Chief Minister's prerogative, let him do what he has to," he said, adding that media speculation was driving the narrative.

Reiterating his loyalty to the party, Shivakumar said, "If the party says he (Siddaramaiah) will continue for five years, he will be there for five years. If they ask him to be there for ten years, he will be there for ten years. Even if they say fifteen years, he will be there for fifteen years," stressing that his focus remains on organisational work and party unity.

Rejecting talk of any internal churn, the Deputy Chief Minister quipped, "There is no November, December, or January revolution. There is only one revolution, and that will be in 2028 when Congress comes back to power. Till then, there is no revolution."

On questions regarding cabinet expansion, Shivakumar said all decisions would be taken by the Congress leadership in Delhi.

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