Karnataka cabinet reshuffle likely after May 4, leadership speculation continues

Speculation grows over a cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka after May 4, with talk of a leadership change. D. K. Shivakumar says he and the Chief Minister will abide by the party’s decision.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 26 April 2026, 6:10 PM IST

Karnataka cabinet reshuffle likely after May 4 (Img: Internet)

Bengaluru: Political circles in Karnataka are abuzz with speculation that a long-pending cabinet reshuffle could take place after May 4, once results of key assembly elections across states are announced. The possibility of changes within the government has also revived discussions around leadership in the state.

Leadership question back in focus

Talk of a leadership change has resurfaced amid reports of a continuing power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy D. K. Shivakumar. The two senior leaders have long been seen as contenders for the top post, fuelling ongoing political debate within the ruling Congress.

The speculation gained traction after the government completed two-and-a-half years in office in November 2025, a point often linked to an alleged power-sharing understanding during the formation of the government in 2023.

Shivakumar’s response

Addressing reporters on Sunday after returning from Delhi, Shivakumar sought to downplay the speculation. He said both he and the Chief Minister would abide by any decision taken by the Congress leadership.

Shivakumar emphasised that he has full faith in the party’s high command and maintained that any decision regarding leadership would be made at an appropriate time. He also avoided elaborating on internal political discussions, stating that he would not comment on such matters publicly.

No internal differences, says Deputy CM

Rejecting suggestions of discord within the party, Shivakumar asserted that there are no issues among leaders and that previously agreed decisions would be implemented as planned. When asked specifically about a possible leadership change, he said the matter had never been discussed formally and reiterated his commitment to follow the party’s direction.

BJP criticism and reservation issue

Responding to criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party over the government’s decision on internal reservation for Scheduled Castes, Shivakumar defended the move. He said the Congress had fulfilled its promise, while accusing the BJP of failing to act on the issue during its tenure in power.

Awaiting clarity after election results

With election results expected on May 4, attention now turns to whether the Congress leadership will take a call on cabinet restructuring or leadership changes. Until then, political uncertainty is likely to continue in the state.