Bengaluru, Nov 27 (UNI) The leadership tussle within the Karnataka Congress escalated on Thursday, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stepping up efforts to retain his position even as Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar’s camp intensified pressure on the party high command in New Delhi.
A day after Shivakumar publicly stated that there was a “confidential understanding on leadership transition among five-six leaders” following the Congress victory in the 2023 assembly polls, his faction travelled to the national capital, citing the two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula. Several legislators aligned with him met in Delhi, urging the central leadership to take an immediate decision.
Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar avoided direct confrontation but reiterated his stand on conscience-driven politics, saying the Congress must not be weakened by internal conflict.
Siddaramaiah launched parallel efforts to consolidate support. The Chief Minister communicated to the high command that the uncertainty surrounding the transition should end and said the final decision must come from the central leadership.
On Thursday morning, he convened a meeting at his residence with senior ministers including G. Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, Mahadevappa, Venkatesh and Krishna Byre Gowda.
With tensions rising, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge intervened, summoning both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to New Delhi.
Kharge confirmed that senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, would participate in the discussions aimed at resolving the dispute. Kharge stated, “I will call everyone and have a discussion. Rahul Gandhi will also be present. Other members will also be present. The decision will be made after discussions with the entire team.”
The high-command meeting is expected to take place later on Thursday, amid growing speculation about whether the Congress will act on the alleged agreement for a mid-term power transition or attempt to calm the internal rift without altering the current arrangement.
The political situation remains fluid as both camps strengthen their positions, keeping the Congress leadership under pressure to deliver a decisive resolution.
