NEW DELHI: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president D.K. Shivakumar on Monday firmly dismissed swirling speculation about a possible cabinet reshuffle, stating that no such plan is under consideration.
Despite his remarks, party insiders suggest that the issue could deepen internal tensions, particularly as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is reportedly in favour of reconfiguring the cabinet. The differing positions of the two senior leaders may add another layer to the ongoing power dynamics within the state unit.
Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Shivakumar played down his meeting with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, calling it routine. He said discussions focused on organisational matters, including office inaugurations, trust-related issues and other internal concerns. “It is natural for a state president to meet the national president. There was nothing unusual about it,” he clarified.
Addressing questions on the reshuffle buzz, Shivakumar categorically denied any such proposal. “There is no cabinet reshuffle, and nothing related to it. If the Congress party survives, only then can leaders like you and me survive. I came here solely to discuss party matters,” he said, putting speculation to rest—for now.