KALABURAGI (KARNATAKA): AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday stated that there would be no change in the Karnataka Chief Minister’s position “for now,” indicating that the leadership question in the state will be addressed soon.
The Chenab Times has learned that Kharge’s remarks come amidst ongoing speculation within the Congress party and political circles regarding a potential leadership transition and cabinet reshuffle. These discussions are anticipated to intensify after May 4, following the announcement of results for assembly elections in four states and one union territory, along with bypolls in two Karnataka assembly segments.
Supporters of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar have consistently advocated for his elevation, citing a purported power-sharing agreement with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah established when the Congress secured victory in the 2023 Assembly polls. Responding to queries about Home Minister G Parameshwara’s suggestion for Kharge to assume the Chief Minister’s role, Kharge stated, “You (media), he (Parameshwara) and people at the top say that it is better if I become (the chief minister). But, more than fate, as per my ideology and as per my service to the party so far, Sonia Gandhi takes decisions regarding me.”
Addressing reporters in Kalaburagi, Kharge elaborated, “But, that question does not arise now. There is already a Chief Minister here. If Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and I, together, have to take any decision in the direction of a change, it will take some time. Let’s wait and see.”
Earlier on Wednesday, amid the prevailing speculation surrounding the leadership in Karnataka, Home Minister G Parameshwara commented that the party would welcome Kharge’s appointment as Chief Minister, given his extensive experience as a senior politician.
The internal leadership discussions within the ruling party have gained momentum, particularly as the Congress government approached the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, 2025. The widespread conjecture surrounding a potential change in chief ministership has been further fueled by reports of a “power-sharing” understanding between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar during the government formation process in 2023.
When questioned about a statement made by JD(S) leader and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy, suggesting that approximately 40 Congress MLAs had booked tickets to Delhi for the following month amidst the leadership dispute, Kharge responded, “I don’t know, ask him for details.”
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