Belagavi, May 15 -- Large banners describing Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as the "next Chief Minister" appeared across Belagavi city on the occasion of his birthday, triggering fresh political discussion amid ongoing speculation over leadership change in Karnataka.

The banners, installed at prominent locations including Rani Chennamma Circle, Sambhaji Maharaj Circle and near Ramdev Hotel, carried birthday greetings for Shivakumar along with the caption, "Heartfelt birthday wishes to the next Chief Minister DK Shivakumar."

The posters also featured photographs of Congress youth leader Mrinal Hebbalkar, son of Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, along with his supporters. The banners are said to have been put up...