In a significant political development aimed at quelling widespread speculation, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar, held a high-stakes breakfast meeting on November 29, 2025. The meeting, conducted in a politically charged atmosphere, was closely watched as a barometer of the Congress party's internal stability in the state.
A Meeting Forged by the High Command
The highly anticipated meeting came after days of intense speculation regarding a power-sharing formula and alleged infighting between the two top leaders. It is understood that the Congress high command had actively pushed both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to sit together and resolve their differences, underscoring the party's concern over the public perception of a rift.
Speaking to the media after their discussion, both leaders were at pains to project an image of harmony and common purpose. They described the meeting as cordial and dismissed any notions of discord. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah explicitly stressed the importance of unity within the party, announcing that the Congress is already preparing aggressively for the next electoral battle in 2028.
A Unified Front Presented to the Public
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar fully endorsed Siddaramaiah's statements, presenting a solid front. He emphasized their commitment to the party's collective leadership, stating that they would follow whatever decision the party leadership ultimately makes. This public display of acquiescence was a key takeaway from the post-meeting media interaction.
The unity narrative was further amplified on social media, where both leaders posted about their "productive discussion." This coordinated digital messaging was a clear attempt to control the political narrative and reassure party workers and the public alike.
BJP's Reaction and Lingering Questions
However, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to dismiss the show of unity as a facade. The BJP labelled the entire event "pure bunkum," accusing the Congress of attempting to hide a much deeper internal crisis. This criticism highlights the political challenges the ruling party faces, where every move is scrutinized and often framed negatively by its rivals.
While the breakfast meeting may have concluded, political analysts suggest that the fundamental questions regarding long-term power dynamics and leadership in the Karnataka Congress remain. The event successfully projected a temporary truce, but whether it translates into sustained cooperation is a story that will unfold in the coming months as the party gears up for the 2028 elections.
