Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is on the cusp of a significant political milestone, poised to become the state's longest-serving chief minister by surpassing the record of D Devaraj Urs. With this achievement in sight, his focus has now shifted to two immediate goals: completing 1,000 days in office in mid-February and presenting a record-equalling 17th state budget soon after. This twin focus has effectively placed his deputy and rival, DK Shivakumar, in a holding pattern, as the Congress high command has yet to give any firm signal regarding a leadership change.
Consolidating Power Amid Transition Talks
On the eve of this landmark, Siddaramaiah has clearly indicated his intention to remain in office for a full five-year term. These remarks carry substantial political weight at a time when speculation about a potential change at the top has intensified. Political observers note that any serious activity concerning a transition is likely to resume only after Siddaramaiah crosses the 1,000-day mark and presents the budget, events that would further solidify his incumbency.
Within the Congress party, Siddaramaiah's emphasis on these upcoming achievements is widely seen as a move to consolidate his position. This comes against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about a transition that gained momentum after his government completed two-and-a-half years in power on November 20, 2023. The party had secured a comfortable majority in the 2023 assembly polls, which led to an immediate tussle for the chief minister's post between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. It was widely believed that the central leadership had pacified Shivakumar with a suggestion that he would take over after the halfway mark of the term.
Shivakumar's Ambition Meets a Wall of Silence
Despite active lobbying by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar—which included public statements, meetings with state ministers and national leaders, and highly visible temple visits—the central party brass has offered no official indication of an impending change. Instead, the high command has refused to intervene, terming it a local issue, which has effectively stalled Shivakumar's ambitions for the time being. Shivakumar is yet to secure a definitive appointment with Rahul Gandhi to discuss the matter.
Support for Shivakumar's claim to the top post appears limited. While many senior ministers have publicly backed Siddaramaiah's continuation, only a few legislators, primarily from Bengaluru South (formerly Ramanagara) and those related to him, have endorsed the deputy CM. This lack of broad-based support within the legislature party has weakened his bargaining position.
Celebrating Stability in a Volatile Political Landscape
Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah's supporters are preparing for a major celebration upon his completion of 1,000 days in office. The plans reportedly include a 'Sadhana Samavesha', extensive media interactions, and a possible cabinet reshuffle. Analysts argue that this focus on longevity is symbolically powerful. "In Karnataka's volatile political history, where chief ministers have been frequently changed, completing 1,000 days is significant," said senior political analyst MN Patil. "It allows the incumbent to claim administrative continuity and a measure of political legitimacy."
A senior Congress functionary echoed this sentiment, stating there is no current move to alter the leadership arrangement. "The high command is unlikely to intervene. The emphasis right now is on governance and delivery," the leader said. Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi also dismissed speculation, asserting that Siddaramaiah would complete the full term. "Siddaramaiah worked extremely hard to reach this position, and it is a matter of pride," Jarkiholi stated. "He has said he will continue as CM for the full 5-year term and will present the budget this year. Differences exist everywhere, but there is no question of replacing the CM."
For now, DK Shivakumar's turn at the helm appears further away than earlier anticipated. As Siddaramaiah prepares to etch his name in the state's record books with dual milestones, the political narrative in Karnataka is firmly centered on continuity, leaving the deputy chief minister waiting in the wings for a signal that may not come anytime soon.
