Not okay for me to repeat': Shivakumar steers clear of commenting on Siddaramaiah' tenure after CM's remark

Bengaluru, July 11, 2025: In what appears to be an effort to de-escalate tensions within the Karnataka Congress, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday refrained from commenting on remarks made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah about his tenure, stating diplomatically that it was “not okay for me to repeat” such remarks. His cautious response comes in the wake of recent statements by Siddaramaiah that have stirred conversations about leadership dynamics within the ruling party.

A Strategic Silence Amid Political Undercurrents

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Shivakumar sidestepped direct queries about Siddaramaiah’s statement that his tenure as Chief Minister may not extend the full five years, a remark perceived by some political observers as either self-deprecating humility or an acknowledgment of internal pressure.

“I don't want to say anything. Whatever the Chief Minister said, it is not okay for me to repeat it. He has said it in his own wisdom,” Shivakumar said, clearly signaling a preference for restraint over reaction. “We have been working together to deliver good governance, and I don’t want to comment beyond that.”

This diplomatic stance, however, hasn't gone unnoticed by political analysts who suggest that Shivakumar is playing a long game, maintaining both party unity and his personal aspirations.

Siddaramaiah’s Remarks Stir Speculation

On Wednesday, Siddaramaiah had said during an interaction that "no position is permanent" and "the party high command will decide on leadership when the time comes," in response to growing speculation over whether he would complete a full term as Chief Minister.

While his tone was modest, the timing of the comment—coming amid discussions in political circles about rotational chief ministership—has reignited speculation about a possible leadership change midway through the term.

Analysts Read Between the Lines

Political analyst Prof. Harish Ramaswamy told The Southern Herald, “This is clearly a period of calibrated messaging within the Karnataka Congress. Siddaramaiah’s statement may have been an attempt to appear magnanimous, but it also leaves the door open for internal negotiations. Shivakumar’s non-response is equally strategic—he doesn’t want to jeopardize his chances by sounding too eager or confrontational.”

Another observer, Anjali Hebbar, editor of Political Pulse Karnataka, noted, “The Congress leadership is trying to hold the alliance together in a crucial state. With Lok Sabha results not delivering the expected outcome, Karnataka has become even more vital to the party’s long-term revival strategy.”

Congress’s Tightrope Walk in Karnataka

The Congress came to power in Karnataka in 2023 after a resounding victory, promising stable governance. A power-sharing formula was reportedly considered then, with an informal understanding that Siddaramaiah would lead for half the term, followed by Shivakumar. However, no such deal was officially acknowledged.

Tensions have surfaced intermittently, with Shivakumar’s supporters pushing for clarity on his future role. Siddaramaiah’s comment, whether intentional or spontaneous, appears to acknowledge these undercurrents.

Party High Command Stays Mum—for Now

So far, the Congress high command has not issued any formal clarification on either Siddaramaiah’s tenure or any transition plan. Insiders suggest that the party leadership in Delhi is keen to avoid a leadership crisis in one of its few southern strongholds, especially with crucial state elections looming in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand.

A senior Congress leader speaking on the condition of anonymity said, “Any change will be carefully calibrated. The focus is on governance and delivering on poll promises, particularly the five guarantees. Leadership changes, if any, will be considered only after assessing public sentiment and administrative performance.”

Market and Investor Outlook: Political Stability Key

Investors and industry players are closely watching the political environment in Karnataka, a key state for India’s tech and manufacturing sectors. According to a note by JM Financials, “While there is no immediate threat to political stability, prolonged leadership ambiguity could delay policy decisions, particularly in infrastructure and industry approvals.”

Karnataka has recently announced multiple investment summits and is pushing forward with industrial corridor development. Business leaders are urging the government to ensure that political transitions, if any, do not derail ongoing projects.

Calculated Calm or Calm Before the Storm?

As of now, D.K. Shivakumar’s carefully worded non-comment reflects both discipline and ambition. By choosing not to stoke the fire, he is reinforcing an image of a loyal deputy while keeping his long-term goals in sight.

Siddaramaiah’s statements, meanwhile, reveal a leader who is aware of the shifting sands within his party, and possibly preparing to shape the narrative on his own terms.

Whether this is a fleeting episode or a prelude to a larger leadership transition remains to be seen. But one thing is clear—the Karnataka Congress will need to walk a delicate line between leadership aspirations and public expectations as it tries to deliver stable governance in a politically critical state.