New Delhi: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has occupied the exclusive CM’s suite accommodation at the new Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi’s upscale Chanakyapuri area, stirring speculation in political circles regarding changes in the state’s Congress leadership.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had briefly occupied the suite during a previous visit to the national capital but later shifted to the CM’s suite in the Annexe building of Karnataka Bhavan, reportedly citing lack of ventilation in the new facility.

Sources quoted by Deccan Herald said that Shivakumar requested Siddaramaiah to allow him to use the suite since it was lying vacant, and the Chief Minister agreed.

Reacting to the buzz, Shivakumar told reporters there was no need to read into the matter. “The Chief Minister’s post is not vacant and there is no need to discuss such issues now,” he said.

Amid ongoing speculations of a possible leadership change in the state, Congress general secretary (Karnataka in-charge) Randeep Surjewala held meetings with party MLAs to gauge their views on current political developments in the state.

Shivakumar mentioned that Surjewala would soon hold a joint meeting with both him and the Chief Minister to discuss ongoing political affairs in Karnataka. However, he refused to disclose further details about the proposed meeting.

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Mumbai (PTI): Former army chief Gen (retd) Manoj Naravane on Wednesday supported RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale's stand on the desirability of willingness to have a dialogue with Pakistan, stating that friendship between the two peoples can lead to better bilateral relations.

"Common people live on both sides of the border, with common problems of 'roti, kapda and makan (food, clothing and shelter). Common man has nothing to do with politics. When there is friendship between the two peoples, there will also be friendship between the two nations," Naravane told PTI on the sidelines of an event here.

"It is a right thing. People-to-people contact is important," he added.

People-to-people contact is key to breaking the deadlock with Pakistan and there should always be a window for dialogue, Hosabale said in an interview to PTI Videos on Tuesday. Pakistan's military and political leadership have lost India's confidence and it is time for civil society to lead the way, the RSS leader said.

Naravane said there should be a people-to-people connect between the two countries, be it through 'track two' diplomacy or even a sporting event.

"Even our people should know that those staying across the border are not sworn enemies," the former army chief said.

"Disputes should be resolved through discussion, but this does not mean we cannot use military force. India is a country that speaks the language of peace but we will not hesitate to use force if needed," Naravane added.