The stability of the Congress-led Karnataka government is being tested by an escalating power struggle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his Deputy, D. K. Shivakumar (DKS), over the state’s top post. The internal conflict intensified after the government completed its two-and-a-half-year mark in November, reigniting speculation over a purported “rotational chief minister” deal.
To address the brewing crisis, the Congress high command has instructed both leaders to engage in direct dialogue. Following this directive, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah extended a breakfast invitation to his deputy, scheduled to take place soon.
Five Key Points on the Leadership Crisis
1. The ‘Rotational CM’ Deal
When the Congress swept to power in Karnataka in 2023, the CM selection was a tug-of-war between the veteran Siddaramaiah and the powerful state unit chief DKS. While Siddaramaiah ultimately secured the CM post, it was widely reported that Shivakumar was appointed Deputy Chief Minister under a “power-sharing” or “rotational chief minister” arrangement. Under this alleged deal, Shivakumar would assume the CM’s office after two and a half years—a milestone the government recently crossed, driving the current speculation.
2. Shivakumar’s Subtle Signaling
Despite the growing buzz, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar publicly maintained a measured stance, stating he was in “no hurry” to take the CM post and denying any recent talks with the party high command about replacing Siddaramaiah. However, his cryptic social media posts, such as those emphasizing “keeping one’s word is greatest strength” and “word power is world power,” were widely interpreted as a subtle yet clear message to the Congress high command to honour the alleged 2023 agreement.
3. Siddaramaiah Aims for Full Term
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded to the speculation by asserting that he plans to complete his full five-year term, which is scheduled to end in 2028. He cited the “mandate given by the people” to back his claim for a full tenure. Nevertheless, he quickly tempered his stance by reiterating that he would ultimately “accept whatever the high command says,” signaling his willingness to follow central leadership’s direction, a position DKS has also publicly affirmed. The breakfast invitation extended to Shivakumar followed the high command’s urging for direct talks between the two.
4. Hint of Stepping Down as PCC Chief
Further fueling the leadership change speculation, DKS recently suggested he could not hold the post of Karnataka Congress chief (PCC chief) “permanently,” indicating a desire to make way for others. This suggestion was seen by many as a strategic move to potentially free himself up for the higher post of Chief Minister.
5. High Command Strategy Meeting on November 30
The central leadership of the Congress is now poised to intervene. A crucial Strategy Group meeting is scheduled for the evening of November 30 in New Delhi, ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament. Senior party leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, are expected to attend and discuss the Karnataka leadership tussle. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have indicated their readiness to travel to New Delhi if summoned, with DKS reportedly planning to travel on December 1. Congress President Kharge has affirmed that a final decision will be taken collectively by the high command after discussions with all key stakeholders.