‘People and MLAs may dream of me as CM; party will decide,’ says D.K. Shivakumar

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 7, 2026: Responding to media queries about leadership aspirations, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday said that while people, legislators and even the media may have dreams of him becoming the Chief Minister, the final decision rests with the party.

“People have the dream, MLAs have the dream and even the media has the dream that I should become the CM. But we must see what the party says,” he remarked while speaking to reporters in Mangaluru.

When asked about Dalit organisations expressing their desire for Home Minister G. Parameshwaraiah to become Chief Minister, Shivakumar said that supporters of leaders naturally have aspirations. “Everyone’s followers will have their own wishes. I cannot say no to that,” he said.

On speculation about power-sharing after the State Budget, the Deputy CM said, “Time itself will give the answer.”

Meanwhile, Shivakumar also reacted to the proposed revision of Bengaluru Metro fares. He clarified that there is a separate committee to decide on fare revision and that it is headed by a chairperson appointed by the Union government. “We have not been consulted on the Metro fare hike. The chairman is from the central government. I will speak to them today or tomorrow,” he said, adding that he would ensure that the public is not inconvenienced due to fare revision.

He reiterated that he would take up the issue of Metro fare revision to safeguard the interests of commuters.