‘My father is in final phase of political career’: Siddaramaiah’s son sparks speculation

Yathindra’s comments, made at an event in Belagavi attended by Jarkiholi, have reignited chatter about succession within the Karnataka Congress, even as the party leadership continues to deny any rift between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

“My father is in the final phase of his political career. At this stage, he needs a leader with a strong ideology and a progressive mindset whom he can be a margdarshak to. Satish Jarkiholi is someone who can uphold the Congress party’s ideology and lead the party effectively,” Yathindra said.

He added that Jarkiholi’s commitment to social justice and secular principles made him one of the few leaders capable of carrying forward Siddaramaiah’s legacy.

When reporters later asked if the statement implied a succession plan, Yathindra clarified,

“My father has said he will not contest elections after 2028. I only meant that he can mentor younger leaders with similar beliefs. Satish Jarkiholi can fill his shoes after his retirement.”

The remarks have come at a time when rumours about a possible change of guard in Karnataka refuse to die down.

Just last month, Siddaramaiah had to reiterate that he would serve as chief minister for the full five-year term, following comments by Congress MP LR Shivarame Gowda, who had called for clarity from the party high command.

“There’s no doubt about DK Shivakumar eventually becoming chief minister, but the final decision rests with the high command,” Gowda had said, prompting Siddaramaiah to once again dismiss speculation.

Despite repeated denials from Congress, insiders admit there are two clear camps within the party, one loyal to Siddaramaiah and the other to Shivakumar.

Jarkiholi is widely seen as part of the Siddaramaiah camp.

Observers note that Yathindra’s “margdarshak” comment is likely to deepen political discussions within the state unit ahead of the 2028 assembly elections, especially as Siddaramaiah has publicly hinted at winding down his political career.

Neither the chief minister nor the Congress high command has yet responded to Yathindra’s remarks.