Karnataka, Feb 10 : Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain has claimed that a significant number of party legislators have urged the leadership to consider Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for the chief minister’s role, intensifying speculation over a potential leadership shift in the state.
Speaking to ANI, Hussain said around 80–90 MLAs had conveyed their preference to the party high command while maintaining that the final decision rests with the leadership. He also criticised Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah for repeatedly making statements perceived as supportive of his father, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stressing that party members must uphold discipline and avoid creating discomfort for the high command.
Hussain noted that while many legislators privately favour Shivakumar’s elevation, they have largely refrained from public comments to prevent confusion within the party. Reiterating his own stance, he said he has consistently believed Shivakumar deserves an opportunity to lead during the current tenure.
Echoing similar sentiments, Congress MLC Channaraj Hattiholi expressed hope that Shivakumar would assume the top post before the term concludes.
The debate gained momentum after reports quoted Yathindra Siddaramaiah as suggesting the central leadership had allowed the incumbent chief minister to complete the full five-year term. Responding to those remarks, Shivakumar said he respected the statement and would accept it if it reflected the party’s position.
Talk of a leadership contest has persisted since November 2025, when the Karnataka government reached the midpoint of its tenure. Apart from Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, Home Minister G. Parameshwara is also regarded as a potential contender, keeping the internal dynamics of the state Congress under close watch.