Karnataka Leadership Debate Intensifies Amid Congress Internal Discussions
The political tension surrounding the Karnataka chief minister's position flared up again on Tuesday. DK Shivakumar's brother made a significant statement about Congress leadership's position on the matter.
Rahul Gandhi's Assurance to Deputy Chief Minister
Former MP DK Suresh revealed that Rahul Gandhi personally assured Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar about the leadership issue. According to Suresh, Gandhi promised that the Congress party would make an appropriate decision at the right time.
"The party has already asked him to be patient," Suresh told reporters. "Rahul Gandhi, during the meeting in Mysuru, also said that an appropriate decision would be taken at the right time."
Suresh described his brother as a committed party functionary who follows discipline diligently. He emphasized that Shivakumar's approach focuses on keeping all 140 Congress legislators united and maintaining government stability.
Patience and Party Unity Emphasized
The political authority requires perseverance according to Suresh. He explained that Shivakumar waits patiently for the party's decision in the interest of both the Congress organization and its legislators.
"In the interest of the party and legislators, and with the goal of keeping all 140 legislators together, he is patiently waiting for the party's decision," Suresh stated.
With an eye on the 2028 assembly elections, Suresh stressed that unity within the Congress party remains critical for future success. He noted that as party president, Shivakumar must maintain discipline first, which he follows diligently.
Leadership Speculation Timeline
The leadership discussion in Karnataka gained momentum after the Congress government completed the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, 2025. Speculation centers on a reported power-sharing understanding between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar during government formation in 2023.
Shivakumar previously confirmed discussions with the Congress high command about the leadership issue. He acknowledged that while a decision had been taken, its timing remains to be finalized.
Upcoming Legislative Session as Reference Point
Suresh indicated that the upcoming legislative session could provide clarity. The session scheduled from January 22 to 31 might serve as a reference point after which the party leadership's stand may become clearer.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the situation separately. He stated his willingness to travel to New Delhi if called by the Congress high command to discuss the leadership issue.
"I will go if I am called by the Congress high command," Siddaramaiah reiterated, noting that any such engagement would depend on a formal summons from the party leadership.
Governance Focus Amid Political Discussions
Siddaramaiah sought to shift focus to governance matters. He highlighted that the joint session of the state legislature would convene from January 22 to 31, alongside a special session on MGNREGA.
Preparations for the 2026–27 state budget will begin after the legislative session concludes. Official sources indicate that the budget presentation will likely occur in March.
Siddaramaiah previously expressed his intention to present his 17th state budget next year. This would add to his existing record as finance minister in Karnataka.
The political developments unfold as the Congress party balances internal leadership considerations with governance responsibilities in Karnataka. Both factions within the party appear to await formal direction from the central leadership while maintaining public displays of unity and discipline.
