DK Shivakumar on CM race: 'I live on hope, party leadership will take a call'

In an exclusive interaction with India Today at Davos, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the ongoing speculation regarding the state's leadership transition. Responding to queries about the rumoured power-sharing agreement with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar stated, 'I live on hope' when asked if he would return to Davos next year as the Chief Minister. He emphasised that the leadership issue is an internal party matter and not for media discussion, noting that the Congress high command will take the final call. Shivakumar also defended his presence in Davos during the Karnataka assembly session, asserting that his visit is aimed at attracting investment for the state. He highlighted the importance of MGNREGA, describing it as the 'heart' of rural development initiated by the UPA government. Despite persistent questioning about a potential meeting in Delhi to settle the 'Kaun Banega Mukhyamantri' debate, he maintained his confidence in the party leadership's decision-making process.