‘Rotational CM’ Deal, Breakfast Diplomacy: Karnataka Power Tussle in 5 Points

More than two years after Siddaramaiah became Karnataka’s chief minister and DK Shivakumar his deputy, a renewed leadership tussle is looming over the Congress government, with both leaders once again seen as contenders for the top post.

Speculation over a possible change of leadership has intensified ahead of a Congress Strategy Group meeting on November 30, which senior leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are expected to attend. Siddaramaiah has also invited Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting after the high command urged both men to hold discussions to ease tensions.

Here are the key points:

1. Rotational CM Deal
When the Congress returned to power in 2023, Siddaramaiah was chosen as chief minister and Shivakumar as his deputy—reportedly under a “power-sharing” or “rotational CM” agreement under which Shivakumar would take over after 2.5 years. With the government halfway through its term, the question of succession has resurfaced.

2. Shivakumar Says He Is ‘Not in a Hurry’
Shivakumar has denied holding discussions with the high command on replacing Siddaramaiah, saying he is “in no hurry”. But his cryptic social media posts about “keeping one’s word” have fueled talk of him staking claim to the post.

3. Siddaramaiah’s Response
Citing the “people’s mandate,” Siddaramaiah has said he intends to complete his full five-year term ending in 2028 but will abide by the high command’s decision. He also extended a breakfast invite to Shivakumar, saying both leaders would follow whatever the top leadership decides.

4. Shivakumar Hints at Stepping Aside From Party Role
As half the government’s tenure ended on November 20, Shivakumar’s supporters renewed calls for the rotational CM formula. A day earlier, he suggested he might step down as Karnataka Congress president, saying he cannot hold the post “permanently” and wants others to get opportunities.

5. Crucial Congress Meeting on November 30
The leadership issue is expected to be discussed at a Strategy Group meeting in New Delhi on November 30 ahead of Parliament’s Winter Session. Siddaramaiah has said he will travel to Delhi if called, while Shivakumar has indicated he may visit on December 1.