Bengaluru: As chief minister Siddaramaiah nears three years in office on May 10, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar and his brother DK Suresh have stepped up lobbying in New Delhi, meeting senior Congress functionaries and fuelling speculation over a possible CM change in Karnataka.The two met AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge, senior functionaries KC Venugopal and Randeep Surjewala over the last two days. When asked about it, Shivakumar refuse to divulge details. He just said it is the party’s internal matter and he won’t discuss with media.Party insiders said Shivakumar reiterated his claim to the CM’s post, with his supporters pointing to an alleged rotational arrangement after the 2023 assembly elections. The high command has not officially confirmed any such understanding, though Kharge has made remarks on internal coordination.Some functionaries view the Delhi meetings as Shivakumar’s final push for the top post as he knows Siddaramaiah will call for a cabinet reshuffle to strengthen his position, while others see the talks as part of routine consultations. 100% confusion here: JarkiholiIn Bengaluru, public works department minister Satish Jarkiholi said, “It is true there is 100 per cent confusion in the state Congress party. There is confusion over CM, deputy CM and cabinet reorganisation. We have requested the high command to resolve the issue. Everything will be set right soon.”Minister Priyank Kharge downplayed Shivakumar’s Delhi visit and dismissed the leadership chatter. “What is wrong in meeting a Union minister (defence minister Rajnath Singh)? He has gone to discuss Bengaluru-related issues and development works. Should he not meet leaders?” Priyank asked.
