The Congress government in Karnataka faces a serious internal power struggle as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar present conflicting demands to the party high command. While Siddaramaiah is advocating for a cabinet reshuffle, Shivakumar insists the party must first address the leadership change question.
The Battle Lines Are Drawn
According to multiple Congress insiders, the ongoing tussle has significant implications for Karnataka's political future. If the Congress high command approves Siddaramaiah's proposed cabinet reshuffle, it would effectively signal that the current chief minister will complete the full five-year term, thereby ending Shivakumar's aspirations of occupying the top position.
The political drama escalated when six MLAs from the Shivakumar camp arrived in Delhi on Sunday night, with more legislators expected to join them. Those who have already reached the national capital include H C Balakrishna, K M Uday, Iqbal Hussain, Nayana Motamma, Sharath Bachegowda, and Shivaganga Basavaraj.
High Command's Final Say
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the media, clearly stating that the ultimate decision rests with the Congress high command. "We will abide by the high command decision. If they decide I should continue as CM, I will continue. Ultimately, whatever the high command decides, I should accept it. Shivakumar should also accept it," Siddaramaiah told reporters.
When questioned specifically about whether Shivakumar would become the chief minister, Siddaramaiah responded with evident frustration: "When I have said the high command will decide, you are asking me the same thing again."
Background of the Power Struggle
The current political crisis comes at a significant milestone - the Congress government completed 2.5 years in office on November 20. This has fueled speculation about a potential chief minister change, with some referring to it as the "November revolution" in reference to the alleged power-sharing agreement made between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar when the party won the 2023 Assembly polls.
Adding another dimension to the leadership battle, former KPCC chief and Home Minister G Parameshwara has also expressed interest in the top position, with some voices within the party calling for a Dalit chief minister to take over the reins.
The political maneuvering continues as key Congress leaders position themselves. Siddaramaiah recently met with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru, while Kharge is expected to travel to Delhi soon. The timing coincides with Rahul Gandhi's anticipated return from abroad, suggesting that the leadership issue may be discussed at the highest levels.
Last week, approximately 10 MLAs supporting Shivakumar traveled to New Delhi to meet with Kharge, though Shivakumar claimed unawareness of these developments. The situation remains fluid as both factions await the high command's final decision that could determine Karnataka's political direction for the remaining term.
