Push For Leadership Change In Karnataka Congress Gains Momentum; Iqbal Hussain Bats For DK Shivakumar

Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain has now openly backed Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for the Chief Minister’s post, further intensifying the internal churn.

Surjewala's visit comes at a time when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing mounting pressure from a section of Congress legislators who believe that DK Shivakumar’s organizational skills warrant his elevation.

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Amid simmering discontent within the Karnataka Congress, party strategist and AICC general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala’s visit to the state has sparked renewed calls for a leadership shake-up. Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain has now openly backed Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for the Chief Minister’s post, further intensifying the internal churn.

DK Shivakumar Deserves To Become CM: MLA

Iqbal Hussain’s statement comes on the heels of several MLAs voicing similar sentiments with some even predicting a leadership transition within the next few months. Speaking to reporters, Iqbal Hussain said, "DK Shivakumar has worked tirelessly to organize the party during its most challenging times and led it to power. He deserves a chance to become CM. Over 100 MLAs are supporting this demand."

He also confirmed that Surjewala had summoned him for discussions and that he intends to raise not only local development issues but also the growing demand for Shivakumar’s elevation.

“If this issue is not even discussed, then what is the purpose of his visit? I will present my case strongly," Hussain asserted. He further added, “Those who called this a revolution have already given the date. DK Shivakumar will soon become the CM."

In a pointed message to the party leadership, Hussain called for greater organisational discipline, saying, “Some ministers must be controlled. I request the leadership to bring everyone, including me, under organizational discipline for the betterment of the party.”

Surjewala's visit comes at a time when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing mounting pressure from a section of Congress legislators who believe that DK Shivakumar’s organizational skills and loyalty to the party warrant his elevation. While the Congress high command has so far maintained silence on the issue, the growing chorus from within may compel it to take a closer look at the party's internal dynamics in Karnataka.