Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said he wanted to remain a party worker and valued that role more than power or positions, as DK Shivakumar remarks drew attention amid continuing speculation over a possible change of chief minister in the Congress-ruled state.
Speaking to the media at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Shivakumar said his identity as a party worker mattered most to him. “Power or position does not matter to me. I want to remain a party worker. That is permanent for me,” he said. He added that he had worked for the Congress continuously since 1980 and had spent the past 45 years serving the party.
His comments came at a time when speculation has resurfaced about leadership change and power-sharing arrangements within the Karnataka Congress government. However, Shivakumar avoided fuelling the debate and instead highlighted his long-standing commitment to the party.
When asked about any understanding related to sharing the chief minister’s post, Shivakumar said he could not disclose internal discussions. He said the Congress had formed the government in Karnataka through collective effort and credited party workers for the electoral victory.
“We formed the government together as a team. Every party worker worked very hard for this,” he said. He added that the party high command had given the leadership the freedom to function independently.
DK Shivakumar remarks underline unity and governance focus
Further elaborating, Shivakumar said the Congress leadership remained grateful to the people of Karnataka for their support. He stated that the government felt accountable to the electorate and remained committed to fulfilling promises made during the elections.
He also stressed that unity within the party was essential for stable governance. According to him, internal discussions should not distract the government from its responsibilities. Instead, the focus must remain on delivery and public service.
The Deputy Chief Minister said guidance from the party high command and the support of party workers continued to strengthen the government. He reiterated that the Congress administration would function as a united team to meet public expectations.
Political observers noted that DK Shivakumar remarks appeared aimed at calming speculation while reaffirming loyalty to the party organisation. The statements come amid recurring debate over leadership issues, even as the Congress projects unity in Karnataka.
