Congress Legislators' Foreign Trip Fuels Karnataka Power-Sharing Controversy
In a development that has intensified the ongoing power-sharing tensions within the Karnataka Congress, a faction of legislators perceived as loyal to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to embark on a foreign tour, igniting fresh political speculation and internal strife.
Details of the Controversial Foreign Excursion
Approximately 27 Congress Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs) are scheduled to depart for Australia and New Zealand on Tuesday, with plans to return by March 1. This number marks a significant increase from the initial group of 17 legislators who had previously applied for a no-objection certificate from the legislative assembly secretariat for a family trip to these destinations.
While the participating legislators publicly maintain that the journey is merely a routine break from their official duties, insiders within the party assert that the excursion carries unmistakable political undertones. It is widely interpreted as a tactical maneuver designed to undermine Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's efforts to convene a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting later this month. Shivakumar has been actively lobbying for a power transition, aiming to secure the chief minister's position before the critical budget session commences on March 6.
Strategic Countermoves and Internal Warnings
The camp supporting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appears to have orchestrated this foreign tour as a counter-strategy, deliberately scheduling the legislators' return for March 3, which could potentially delay or disrupt Shivakumar's plans for the CLP gathering. This move has drawn criticism from within the party ranks. KPCC vice-president BL Shankar expressed concern, stating, "It is unfortunate that the developments being witnessed in the party is giving the impression that the Congress is riddled with camp politics with seniors hankering for power. This is not in the interest of the party, especially when we are to face a series of elections including assembly by-polls and local bodies election leading up to the 2028 state elections."
Earlier reports indicated that the foreign trips were to be financially sponsored by the animal husbandry department, under Minister K Venkatesh, and the urban development department, led by Minister Byrathi Suresh, both of whom are known Siddaramaiah loyalists. In response to these developments, the Congress high command intervened, issuing warnings to the legislators against proceeding with the tour. AICC general secretary Randeep Surjewala reportedly contacted several MLAs, urging them to postpone their plans. While some legislators heeded this advice, others have chosen to proceed despite the directive.
Minister K Venkatesh, who decided to remain in Karnataka due to personal commitments, defended the trip, saying, "There is nothing wrong with MLAs going on tour. It is a personal trip and has nothing to do with power transition." However, political observers view the situation as a clear escalation of the internal conflict.
Escalating Tensions and Potential Countermeasures
Not to be outmaneuvered, the camp aligned with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is reportedly preparing a countermove if the chief minister's post is not transferred to Shivakumar by the end of February. Sources suggest that his faction may also organize a foreign tour for supportive MLAs, further intensifying the rivalry. A senior MLA, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted the gravity of the situation: "The high command has to put an end to this uncertainty at the earliest. It reflects its failure to reign in MLAs and provoking the DCM camp to take the tussle to next level."
This unfolding drama underscores the deep-seated divisions within the Karnataka Congress, as factions vie for control and influence ahead of crucial political milestones. The foreign tour, ostensibly a leisure trip, has become a focal point in the broader power struggle, raising questions about party discipline and leadership stability in the state.
