Priyanka Gandhi Reportedly Pushing for DK Shivakumar as Karnataka CM

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is reportedly urging the Congress party to replace Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar [1, 2].

This potential leadership shift comes as the party seeks to prevent a damaging public rivalry between the two leaders. A face-off between the current chief minister and his deputy could destabilize the state government and weaken the party's position before the next electoral cycle [1, 2].

Party sources said Gandhi Vadra is pushing for the transition to ensure stability within the Karnataka state wing [1, 2]. The move is viewed as a strategic effort to align the party's leadership before the state election scheduled for 2028 ^[1].

However, the reports of an imminent change have been met with denial. Siddaramaiah dismissed the reports of a leadership transition, and said the situation is "Speculation, No Reality" ^[2].

Despite the public denial, the internal tension persists as the party navigates the balance of power between the two high-profile leaders. The Congress leadership is reportedly holding meetings to address the row and determine the best path forward for the state administration ^[1].

While some sources suggest a push for Shivakumar, other reports indicate that no actual change in the chief minister's office is currently planned ^[2]. The contradiction between internal sources and official statements highlights the volatility of the current political climate within the state's ruling party [1, 2].