New Delhi, 18 Jan

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar arrived at the Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi after cancelling his scheduled visit to Davos for the World Economic Forum 2026.

Addressing reporters at the Karnataka Bhavan, Shivakumar remarked that the media has become the new "high command," claiming it discusses, follows and judges everything.

"See, when I am in Delhi, I am here with you. You in the media have now become the high command (media), you discuss everything, follow everything and judge everything," Shivakumar told reporters.

Amid renewed speculation over a possible leadership change in Karnataka, the Deputy CM said he does not disclose or discuss such matters. He added that he prefers not to speak even when there is "good news."

"When there is good news, we don't talk about it. It's Sunday, a good day. We are people who work for the people and wish well for them. We do not disclose or discuss anything related to such matters, including leadership change," Shivakumar said.

Speculation about a leadership change resurfaced after Shivakumar travelled to the national capital, cancelling his scheduled visit to Davos.

Earlier on 16 January, Shivakumar met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

When questioned about the intent of his visit, the Karnataka Deputy CM told the media that he is not in a position to disclose any plans, as his meeting with AICC is not an issue to be discussed in public. He said it is upon the "General Secretary to disclose any plan".

In response to a question about whether any chief ministerial position talks occurred during the latest meeting between him and Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday at the Mysuru (Mandakalli) airport. The Deputy Chief Minister said, "I can't disclose all these things. It is not an issue to be discussed in public. It is between me, the party High Command, and my Chief Minister."

He further said that he has come here only to meet his party leaders. The media further asked whether DK Shivakumar hasany plans to meet any Union Minister. In response to the question, the Deputy Chief Minister said, " Yes, I have some meetings, I have an important legal issue connected to irrigation projects, and some big cases are there. I will also be meeting some Union Ministers."

The latest developments come against the backdrop of speculation about a possible change in the State's leadership after the Congress government in Karnataka completed the halfway mark of its five-year term on 20 November.