Bengaluru, 27 April

Ministerial aspirants pushing for a Cabinet reshuffle and Congress leaders backing Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as Chief Minister are expecting “sweet” or “happy news” from the party High Command next month.

The buzz comes amid growing speculation over a possible leadership change and Cabinet rejig after 4 May, when results of Assembly elections infour states and one Union Territory, along with bypolls in Karnataka, will be declared.

Senior Congress MLA and Chief Whip Ashoka Pattan said AICC General Secretary in charge of Karnataka Randeep Singh Surjewala had assured a group of legislators of “sweet news” by the second or third week of May. Pattan said around 40 MLAs are planning to travel to New Delhi after the results to press for a Cabinet reshuffle. He added that they had also met party president Mallikarjun Kharge, who promised to discuss the matter with Rahul Gandhi.

Party sources indicate a divide in priorities, with Chief MinisterSiddaramaiah favouring a Cabinet reshuffle, while Shivakumar is keen on clarity over the leadership issue first. Insiders say that if a reshuffle is approved, it could signal Siddaramaiah completing his full five-year term, potentially limiting Shivakumar’s chances of becoming CM.

Congress MLA HD Ranganath, seen as close to Shivakumar, expressed hope the leader would receive “appropriate recognition”, noting 15 May, Shivakumar’s birthday, as a possible moment for “happy news”.  Amid the speculation, Shivakumar said he and Siddaramaiah would abide by whatever decision the party leadership takes. He declined to share details of discussions in Delhi, stating he had full faith in the high command.

The leadership tussle has intensified since the government crossed the halfway mark of its term in November 2025, with speculation fuelled by a reported power-sharing arrangement at the time of government formation in 2023. Adding to the pressure, a delegation of pontiffs led by Pranavananda Swamiji met Shivakumar, urging the Congress to appoint him Chief Minister andcalling for a “bold step”. They also sought a “birthday gift” decision from the party.

Meanwhile, senior leaders, including Satish Jarkiholi, are reported to be in Delhi for consultations.