Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar’s Birthday Sparks ‘Next CM’ Leadership Hype

Ahead of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s 64th birthday, supporters displayed large cut‑outs and posters reading “Next CM DKS” outside the Karnataka Congress office and across Bengaluru. The displays, framed as birthday wishes, revived speculation about a power‑sharing arrangement between Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a debate that has lingered since the Congress returned to power in 2023.

Party officials said the Congress high command will consider the leadership question after recent developments in Kerala, with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi noting a final decision will come later. Shivakumar has publicly reaffirmed that both he and Siddaramaiah will follow the high command’s direction, while the chief minister has projected stability and no immediate reshuffle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comment that “the CM chair is wobbling” in Karnataka was rebuffed by Shivakumar, who said “no chairs are wobbling.” Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also posted birthday greetings to Shivakumar on X.