Congress MLA claims Shivakumar to be CM after Winter session; deputy CM says won't 'indulge in show of strength'

“Shivakumar has a chance. He will become the CM now. For all his effort, struggle and party's organisation, we're hopeful that he'll be rewarded. We've told the high command about this,” Ramanagara Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain said.

Belagavi: In a no-holds-barred claim, Ramanagara Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain on Friday said Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar would replace the incumbent Siddaramaiah after the ongoing Belagavi session of the legislature.

“Shivakumar will become the CM after this session,” Hussain told reporters at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha here.

“Shivakumar has a chance. He will become the CM now. For all his effort, struggle and party's organisation, we're hopeful that he'll be rewarded. We've told the high command about this,” Hussain said.

Hussain’s statement came a day after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, MLC Dr Yathindra, ruled out a change in leadership. “Nobody is above the Congress’ top brass,” Hussain said.

Hussain also said that 55 Congress lawmakers met for dinner late on Thursday night.

Asked if the leadership question would be answered by the high command based on a number game on who enjoys most MLAs’ support, Hussain said: “It's not about numbers. It'll be a decision and all must be bound to it. We've been asked to maintain discipline. The high command has said it will take a decision.”

No show of strength, says DKS

Speaking to reporters, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said he will not indulge in any show of strength. “I don’t need anybody to rally for me. It’s not necessary. I don’t want anybody to speak for me,” he said.

“All 140 MLAs are one. The CM and I belong to the same group,” Shivakumar insisted.