Bengaluru, Feb. 12 -- The political suspense over a possible leadership change in Karnataka deepened on Thursday as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar maintained that he would speak on the issue only at the "right time," turning the spotlight firmly on what many now describe as a waiting game within the ruling Congress.

For months, speculation has swirled around a potential change of chief minister in the state. While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has consistently said he will function in accordance with the directions of the Congress high command, Shivakumar's carefully worded remarks have kept political circles on edge.

During his visit to New Delhi, Shivakumar declined to reveal details of his meetings, saying he had gone to meet those ...