Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday indicated that no immediate change in Karnataka’s leadership is under consideration, even as speculation continues to grow about a possible transition and cabinet reshuffle.
Karji’s statements come amid speculation about a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle after May 4, once the results of the assembly elections in four states and one union territory are announced, along with by-elections for the two assembly segments in the state.
Karg sought to put an end to suggestions of an imminent shift, stressing that any decision would include consultations among the party’s senior leadership. He added: “There is already a prime minister here.”
“If Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and I, together, have to take any decision in the direction of change, it will take some time. Let us wait and see,” he added.
The question of leadership in Karnataka has been on the table ever since the Congress formed the government in 2023. Reports of a power-sharing understanding between Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar has since been confirmed, although the party has never been officially confirmed.
The issue has come back to the fore after the government passed the halfway mark of its term in November 2025. In recent weeks, political activity on the issue has increased, with leaders linked to Shivakumar seeking clarification and some lawmakers traveling to New Delhi to engage with the party’s central leadership.
Shivakumar had previously admitted that a limited group of senior leaders had discussed a possible leadership transition after the 2023 win, but declined to provide details. He said: “This is a confidential matter. I do not want to talk publicly about this matter.”
Separately, Congress leader KN Rajanna said earlier this week that Siddaramaiah would step down if Rahul Gandhi asked him to do so.
In the current round of speculation, Rajanna asserted that the matter rests entirely with the party high command.
“There is no ambiguity at all. Whatever you want, ask Mallikarjun Kharge Sahib. I will not comment on the change of leadership. This is a matter for the party high command, and they will decide,” he said.
Comments from other leaders added to the ongoing debate.
State Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said that Karg would be welcomed as chief minister if such a decision is taken, citing his experience.
Kharji rejected the proposal, stressing that decisions related to his role are taken by the party leadership.
“You (media), he (Parameshwara) and people at the top are saying that it is better that I become (prime minister). But, more than fate, according to my ideology and according to my service to the party so far, Sonia Gandhi is taking decisions for me,” the Congress president said, adding that the situation does not warrant such a move at present.
Karg also refused to address the allegations made by Janata Dal (Secular) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who said that nearly 40 Congress legislators have booked tickets to New Delhi amid the ongoing political developments.
“I don’t know, ask him for details,” said Kharge, who is also Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha.
