Bengaluru, 19 Nov

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday indicated that he may have to step down as the State Congress President, but assured party workers that he will remain "in the frontline leadership" of the party.

Speaking at a party event to mark former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary, Shivakumar said, "Whether I’m around or not is immaterial. But I want to set up 100 party offices during my tenure."

When some party workers expressed concern over his uncertain tenure as state Congress chief, he said, "I cannot hold the post permanently. It has already been 5.5 years, and in March, it will be six years."

"Others should be given an opportunity. But I will be in the leadership. Don't worry, I will be at the frontline," he added.

Shivakumar was appointed Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President in May 2020.

He said he intended to resign as party President upon becoming Deputy Chief Minister in May 2023, but was asked by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi to continue for some more time.

Shivakumar's remarks come amid speculation about a change in the chief ministerial post as the Congress government approaches the halfway mark of its five-year term this month, a period referred to as the "November revolution.

Senior party leaders have also raised questions about the KPCC leadership.

PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi and former Minister KN Rajanna, considered close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, have openly expressed aspirations for the post.

After the event, Shivakumar briefly interacted with press saying he was not avoiding responsibility but trying to set an example as party president.

As he spoke, some supporters shouted slogans calling him the "next CM".