No Shake-Up, Just Solidarity: Congress Puts Karnataka Rumors to Rest

Mysuru | July 2, 2025

It started as a whisper. Then a headline. Then, a frenzy of speculation. Was Karnataka heading for a political rejig? Would D.K. Shivakumar finally get his long-awaited promotion? Or was it all just smoke without fire?

Turns out, it was the latter.

Congress leader and political firefighter Randeep Singh Surjewala landed in Karnataka earlier this week, and within hours, doused the flames of speculation with a firm, almost amused dismissal:

“We are not seeking opinions on leadership change. It’s a clear no.”

He wasn’t just brushing aside a question. He was putting an end to a narrative.

Between Whispers and Warnings

The past few weeks saw persistent murmurs about a power tussle in Karnataka’s Congress unit. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s loyalists were reportedly lobbying hard behind closed doors. Social media added spice, with cryptic posts and veiled jabs fueling the fire.

But if there was a rebellion brewing, it didn't show. Shivakumar himself stood next to Surjewala, smiling for the cameras, offering no signs of discord.

“We're on the same page. Always have been,” Shivakumar told reporters, a response that felt sincere — or maybe strategic. Hard to tell in politics.

More Than Just a Denial

What’s interesting is how this wasn’t just a press conference. It was a show of unity.

Sources say Surjewala met nearly 50 MLAs, not to quiz them about leadership preferences, but to listen — understand their grievances, and maybe remind them that 2028 isn’t that far away.

The Congress, coming off a strong win in 2023, can’t afford internal battles. The message was subtle but unmistakable: There’s a time for ambition. This isn’t it.

Even Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who previously hinted that "no chair is permanent," seems to have pressed pause on that philosophy — at least for now.

Social Media Reactions:

• @MysuruMatters: “First they say all is well, then suddenly a ‘strategic shift’. Not buying this unity parade. #KarnatakaPolitics”

• @DesiPundit: “LOL at everyone hoping for a Shivakumar coup. This is Congress we’re talking about. Their drama’s always on a slow burn.”

What This Really Means

In political speak, "no change" today could mean "maybe later". Congress has a long history of making firm statements and firmer U-turns.

But for now, Siddaramaiah stays. Shivakumar waits. And the Congress focuses on holding the fort, gearing up for a high-stakes electoral season.

Whether this unity is genuine or just clever damage control — time will tell. But one thing is certain: Karnataka isn’t changing captains just yet.