Siddaramaiah vs Shivakumar: Power-sharing tussle rages in Karnataka Congress; top developments | Bengaluru News
BENGALURU: The tussle for Karnataka’s chief ministerial post has intensified, with camps supporting chief minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar (DKS) stepping up pressure. Both leaders insist the final decision rests with the Congress high command, even as political signalling intensifies on the ground.A day earlier, Siddaramaiah asserted that he would complete his full five-year term as CM, while Shivakumar publicly dismissed all speculation of a leadership change, saying he is “not in a hurry” and has had no discussions with senior Congress leaders on the CM post.During his visit to Mumbai, DKS clarified that he met no national leaders.“I came only for a family function. There was no meeting. If a meeting has to happen, it will be in Bengaluru or Delhi,” he said.Speculation around a mid-term power shift continues to be fueled by the 2023 ‘power-sharing arrangement’, frequently referenced in political circles.Below are the key developments:AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge’s son, Priyank Kharge, met Shivakumar at his Bengaluru residence on Friday morning, adding curiosity to the already charged atmosphere. Priyank maintained that the high command will intervene only when necessary, and urged an end to needless speculation.“Congress was, is, and will remain united. We walk the talk,” he said.
- Vokkaliga groups rally behind DKS
Several Vokkaliga community organisations have come out openly in support of Shivakumar, with plans to write to the Congress leadership urging that he be made the CM.MLA HC Balakrishna threw his weight behind DKS, stating that the high command must step in and take a decision soon. He expressed hope that Shivakumar would eventually take oath as Chief Minister.
- Yathindra Siddaramaiah backs his father
Congress MLC and Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra, reiterated his support for the current CM, saying he is unaware of any power-sharing pact between his father and DKS.
- Kharge says decision will follow consultations
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge clarified that a leadership decision will be made after consultations involving central leaders, Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar. He underscored the need for deliberation before any move is made.
