In a strong display of solidarity, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy, DK Shivakumar, jointly addressed the media on Tuesday, seeking to quell persistent rumors of a leadership rift within the state's ruling party. This marked their second joint press conference in just four days, a move clearly aimed at projecting a united Congress face to the public and the opposition.
A Show of Strength and Unity
The two powerful leaders stood side-by-side, sending a clear message that the party's rank and file in Karnataka remains cohesive. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah explicitly stated that all legislators of the Congress party in the state are united and prepared to collectively counter the opposition. He emphasized that the leadership is working in harmony to fulfill the government's promises to the people.
This public appearance follows a significant private meeting where the two leaders shared breakfast at Siddaramaiah's official residence. Political observers see this gesture as a deliberate signal of reconciliation, intended to put an end to weeks of speculation about internal discord and a simmering power struggle between the two camps.
Awaiting the High Command's Summons
Addressing the elephant in the room, Siddaramaiah revealed that both he and Shivakumar are ready to travel to the national capital if summoned by the Congress high command. The high command includes senior figures like Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and party president Mallikarjun Kharge.
He further disclosed that a meeting of the party's Members of Parliament from Karnataka is scheduled for December 8. While the agenda for this gathering is not officially confirmed, it is widely anticipated that discussions may touch upon the state's political management and the much-talked-about leadership dynamics.
The Shadow of the "Rotational CM" Formula
The backdrop to this show of unity is the unceasing speculation around a potential "rotational chief minister" arrangement. According to this theory, which has gained traction in political circles, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is expected to take over the top post halfway through the current term, succeeding Siddaramaiah.
This speculation has been a constant source of political chatter, often leading to perceptions of tension between the two leaders and their respective supporters. Today's joint briefing was a direct attempt to counter those narratives and present a stable, conflict-free government to the electorate.
By stating their willingness to abide by any decision from the party's central leadership in Delhi, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have effectively placed the ball in the high command's court. Their united front suggests that for now, internal discussions will take precedence over public disagreements, as the Congress seeks to maintain its hard-won governance in the southern state.
