Senior MLA H.A. Iqbal Hussain says high command summons D.K. Shivakumar to Delhi on February 26

Ramanagara: Speculation over a possible leadership change in the Karnataka unit of the Indian National Congress gathered fresh momentum on Saturday after senior MLA H.A. Iqbal Hussain, considered close to Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, indicated that the party high command has summoned the latter to New Delhi on February 26.

Addressing reporters in Ramanagara, Hussain said the meeting could prove decisive. “The party high command has asked our leader to come to Delhi on February 26 regarding the leadership issue. That day will bring good news for our leader,” he asserted, fueling talk of a possible change in the Chief Minister’s post.

Currently, Siddaramaiah is serving as Chief Minister and has completed nearly two-and-a-half years in office. Hussain argued that it was time to honor what many in the party believe to be a power-sharing understanding. “Siddaramaiah has completed two-and-a-half years. For the remaining term, Shivakumar should be given an opportunity. This is the desire of ministers and legislators alike,” he said.

The MLA further revealed that senior minister Satish Jarkiholi had recently met AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge to urge the central leadership to resolve the lingering uncertainty over leadership. “Shivakumar worked tirelessly to bring the party to power. If the Congress has to be reorganised and strengthened for the future, he must also be entrusted with leadership responsibility,” Hussain maintained.

Responding to a recent post by Siddaramaiah on the social media platform X, Hussain rejected allegations of factionalism. “All 140 MLAs, including myself, have sought leadership change. There is no vested interest or groupism behind this,” he claimed.

The remarks come amid growing murmurs within the state Congress about a rotational Chief Minister arrangement, though no official confirmation has been issued by the high command. Party insiders suggest that the February 26 meeting in Delhi could clarify the leadership roadmap for the remaining half of the government’s tenure.

While supporters of both leaders have maintained public restraint, the issue has once again brought the internal power balance of the Karnataka Congress under sharp focus.