Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Fuels Speculation on Leadership Shift with Hints at Quitting KPCC Post

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Bengaluru, November 20, 2025 – In a development that has reignited the long-simmering power tussle within Karnataka's Congress leadership, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday hinted at stepping down from his role as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, assuring party workers he would remain in a "frontline leadership" position. The remarks, made amid chants of "Next CM DK Shivakumar" from supporters, have sparked fresh buzz about a potential change in the state's top job as the Congress government marks its halfway point in office. Speaking at an event in Bengaluru commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Shivakumar reflected on his five-and-a-half-year tenure as KPCC chief, which began in May 2020. "I cannot hold the post permanently... it has already been five-and-a-half years and in March it will be six," he said, emphasizing the need to give opportunities to others 
He added, "No one can be permanent here. One should leave a mark during one’s tenure. I’m trying to set an example of how a president should work."
 
Shivakumar, undeterred, outlined his legacy goals, including establishing 100 new Congress offices across Karnataka to strengthen the grassroots. "Whether I’m around or not is immaterial. But I want to set up 100 party offices during my tenure," he affirmed.
 
As the high command remains silent, the coming weeks could decide if this "hint" evolves into a full-fledged leadership overhaul—or another chapter in Karnataka's Congress soap opera.