The political power struggle in Karnataka has gained attention following a recent exchange between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar regarding a rotational leadership agreement made by the Congress party after its victory in 2023. Amid ongoing speculation over power-sharing arrangements, Siddaramaiah announced on November 29 that he has invited Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting to discuss the situation.
In light of the current leadership crisis, Congress leaders have urged both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to resolve their disputes through dialogue. Siddaramaiah confirmed on social media that the Congress high command has also reached out to both leaders, emphasizing the importance of their discussion.
“I will act as per what the party seniors have said. If the high command calls me to New Delhi, I will go,” Siddaramaiah stated, underlining his commitment to party directives.
Shivakumar has referenced a purported “secret deal” made within Congress leadership regarding the chief ministership, claiming entitlement to the position based on an agreement that Siddaramaiah would step down after two-and-a-half years, by November 20, 2025. In response to this, Shivakumar’s supporters have been pressing for a leadership change, asserting that it is time for Siddaramaiah to fulfill his promise.
Despite the pressure, Siddaramaiah responded, “The mandate given by the people of Karnataka is not a moment, but a responsibility that lasts five full years,” reiterating his intention to serve a complete five-year term.
The power-sharing issue is expected to be addressed by Congress central leaders in a strategy group meeting scheduled for November 30, just before the winter session of Parliament. Key figures, including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, will be present at this meeting.
On Friday, Shivakumar indicated in a post that the party high command will ultimately decide on the chief ministership, noting his discussions with Congress MLAs and leaders from regions such as Malluru, Kolar, Mulbagal, and Kunigal. He expressed a preference for not rushing decisions, while planning to highlight farmers’ issues from Karnataka during the upcoming winter session of Parliament.
