Another week, another push: Third MLA backs DK Shivakumar for Chief Minister

Yet another Congress MLA has publicly backed Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to be given a chance to lead the state. HC Balakrishna, a legislator from Magadi, on Monday said Shivakumar “too worked hard to bring the party to power” and should be considered for the Chief Minister’s post.

“We are all of the opinion that even DK Shivakumar should be given an opportunity to be in power. He too worked hard to bring the party to power. We will also request the high command to give him a chance to be at the helm of affairs,” Balakrishna said.

The comment follows similar remarks by two other Congress MLAs last week, fuelling ongoing speculation about a leadership change in the state. Basavaraj Shivaganga, a party legislator, had lent his support to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as the state’s future Chief Minister. “What is written in fate, we don't know. We’ll talk about this after December. If our leader becomes the Chief Minister, it’s as good as me becoming one. Let’s discuss this again after December,” Shivaganga had said.

Iqbal Hussain, another Congress MLA, had sparked a stir by declaring that Shivakumar would “definitely become Chief Minister, 200%,” and swearing “on God Mahadevappa” that the Congress would secure over 140 seats in the next assembly election and form the government under Shivakumar’s leadership.

Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna also hinted at big political developments after September.

Responding to these growing calls, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said the statements were individual opinions and advised restraint. “Individually, they have expressed their opinions, to some extent I don't think it is wrong, but then again, there is a Lakshman Rekha drawn by the party, beyond the point one shouldn't go. Probably the All India Congress Committee will look into it, through the General Secretary in charge,” he said, speaking to reporters.

Asked specifically about Rajanna’s remarks, Parameshwara said he was unaware of any such developments. He added that statements like these, if left unchecked, could blur party discipline, although the high command would handle the situation.

Amid mounting speculation about a possible leadership change in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reassured the public that he and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar remain on good terms. Dismissing rumours of discord between him and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah said, “We both are on good terms, no matter who says what.”

- Ends