Bengaluru: The ongoing factional battle for leadership between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar escalated further over the weekend, signaling an intensifying political struggle within the ruling Congress party in Karnataka. The competition for power, which revolves around a possible cabinet reshuffle and leadership change, has now drawn the attention of the state’s MLAs and party leaders, with both factions engaged in high-stakes lobbying for support.
On November 23, a significant number of Congress leaders and MLAs held meetings with both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, trying to gauge the direction in which the political wind is blowing. While some MLAs met Siddaramaiah, others visited Shivakumar’s residence, seeking a favorable position in the ongoing turmoil. There is a growing sense of unease among the party’s ranks, as leaders jostle for power and ministerial posts ahead of the potential reshuffle.
Despite the drama playing out at the ground level, the party’s high command, led by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, has thus far maintained an enigmatic silence. Kharge, who is currently in Bengaluru, has refrained from commenting publicly on the internal rift, even after meeting with Siddaramaiah privately on the evening of November 23. Their one-hour-long conversation raised eyebrows, with many speculating that the high command will soon intervene to resolve the crisis. However, the details of their discussion have not been disclosed, leaving Congress leaders and supporters alike in suspense.
While the party’s MLAs are pushing for clarity, some party insiders have hinted that the high command may soon step in with a firm decision, given the growing pressure from within. As the situation becomes more fraught, ministers and MLAs alike are demanding that the confusion surrounding the leadership and cabinet reshuffle be put to rest. Many see this as an inevitable move, as the current state of affairs risks fracturing the party further.
Leadership under strain
Siddaramaiah, in an attempt to show unity, publicly stated that he and Shivakumar would accept the high command’s decision, whatever it may be. Speaking to the press after his meeting with Kharge, Siddaramaiah stressed the importance of party discipline and expressed his commitment to the party’s central leadership. He added that there was no question of dissatisfaction on his part, but rather that the discussions were about the organization and upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, D.K. Shivakumar, who has remained more reserved in his statements, made a cryptic remark about his patience while attending the World Fisheries Day event on November 23. He metaphorically compared his patience in politics to that of a fisherman’s patience, suggesting that he was waiting for the right moment to make his move. His remarks were seen as a subtle indication that he is biding his time and will accept the high command’s decision, but not without a fight.
Shivakumar’s actions have also drawn some criticism, with Congress MLAs from various regions expressing their concerns about the lack of clarity and the growing tension between the two leaders. Some leaders like Magadi MLA H.C. Balakrishna called for an intervention from the high command to avoid further confusion and disruption among party workers.
Cabinet reshuffle and power sharing: A divisive issue
As the reshuffle looms, the question of power-sharing has become a contentious issue within the party. Several MLAs have expressed concern about the upcoming cabinet shakeup, with many fearing that their positions could be at risk. Some have speculated that the reshuffle could favor one leader over the other, further deepening the divisions between the factions. This uncertainty has led to increased lobbying and backchannel negotiations as each group vies for influence.
Unity or more division?
In an attempt to calm the nerves of his supporters, Shivakumar held a puja at his residence, hoping to gain divine blessings for a favorable outcome. Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah, despite the tensions, has reiterated his commitment to the party’s unity and to following the decision of the high command. However, the political landscape in Karnataka remains precarious, with both leaders appearing to stake their claim for the top job.
As the situation develops, political observers are keenly watching for any signs of a resolution. The Congress party is at a crossroads, with both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar hoping to maintain their influence over the state’s leadership. With the high command’s intervention imminent, the coming days could determine the future course of Karnataka’s ruling party.
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