Karnataka Leadership Row Escalates: CM Siddaramaiah, Deputy Shivakumar Send Mixed Signals Ahead of Delhi Meet

The leadership tussle within the Congress-led Karnataka government appears to be intensifying. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated he would travel to Delhi if summoned by the party high command, while Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar sent a cryptic message on social media, stating, “Word power is world power.”

Since the Congress secured a win in the Karnataka assembly elections in March 2023, speculation has persisted over a power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. Reports suggest the central leadership may have endorsed a plan where power would transfer halfway through the term, after two and a half years.

Tensions have grown in recent months, with the chief minister hinting at a cabinet reshuffle yet asserting he would remain at the helm, while supporters of Shivakumar continue to lobby for his elevation both in Karnataka and in Delhi.

Shivakumar took to X, posting an image with the caption: “Keeping one’s word is the greatest strength in the world!” The post included the text: “Word power is world power…The biggest force in the world was to keep one’s word. Be it a judge, president or anyone else including myself, everyone has to walk the talk. Word power is World power.”

Congress High Command Steps In

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced that he will convene a meeting of senior leaders in New Delhi, including Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar, to resolve the leadership issue. Kharge emphasized that the meeting aims to end the prevailing “confusion” and determine the way forward.

He said, “We should certainly call them and discuss. We will call them, discuss with them and settle the issue. Rahul Gandhi will be part of it, also other members including CM and Deputy CM. After discussing with everyone, a decision will be made,” PTI reported.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah met senior ministers and leaders considered close to him, including G Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, HC Mahdevappa, K Venkatesh, and KN Rajanna, at his residence, signaling active engagement ahead of the high-profile Delhi discussions.