Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar walks with people in Lalbagh Park on the morning of October 11, listening to their concerns, suggestions, discussions, and promised to resolve their problems, during the Bengaluru Walk program, which has been designed to listen to the voices of citizens and air travellers in Bengaluru’s parks.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar denied on Saturday morning (October 11, 2025) making any statement suggesting that the time had come for him to be the Chief Minister, as attributed to him by a section of the media, adding that he was “in no hurry” to occupy the post.
Speaking to reporters after an interaction with the public at Lal Bagh as part of ‘Bengaluru Nadige’ programme, he said his statement had been twisted and he would have to contemplate defamation case against those who indulge in it.
This comes amid rumblings in the ruling dispensation over a possible leadership change, as the Congress government approaches completion of half of its five-year term. Mr. Shivakumar is a strong aspirant for the top post, even as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his supporters have repeatedly claimed that he will complete five full years in office.
‘Twisted’ statements
Mr. Shivakumar said on the latest controversy that cropped up on Saturday (October 11) morning, “Some media houses are twisting my statement and are trying to create a controversy. I have never said that it is time for me to become the Chief Minister. I will file a defamation case if anyone twists my statement and broadcasts.”
“During the public interaction at Lal Bagh, some people said that I must become the Chief Minister,” he said adding that the media had “twisted” it and is reporting it as his statement. “Don’t twist the news and create a controversy,” he said.
“I am not in a hurry to occupy the Chief Minister’s chair. I am working day in and day out to serve the people,” he added. “Where have I made such a statement? Let the media not do politics. I have not made any such statement nor is there any need for me to make such a statement. I know my goal. God will give the opportunity when the time is ripe. I am currently focused on serving the people of Bengaluru and Karnataka.”
Monday meeting
Mr. Siddaramaiah has called a dinner meeting with Ministers on Monday (October 13), which has given rise to speculation about a possible Cabinet reshuffle. The prospect of a reshuffle is seen as the Chief Minister’s counter to Mr. Shivakumar’s moves to push for leadership change. Late on Thursday (October 9), the Chief Minister is learnt to have held a closed-door meeting with Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, and Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi, adding to the ongoing speculation.
Published – October 11, 2025 02:37 pm IST
