Karnataka’s ruling Congress finds itself in its most complex leadership battle yet, as competing power centres escalate lobbying in Delhi and intensify internal pressure on the high command. What began as a tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has now taken a surprising turn, with a section of Congress leaders pitching AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge as the ideal choice for the top post.
The three-way churn Siddaramaiah defending his seat, Shivakumar building momentum for succession, and Kharge emerging as a “Dalit CM” symbol has placed the Congress high command in a precarious position, with major implications for Karnataka’s 2028 Assembly elections.
Supporters of DK Shivakumar, particularly MLAs Balakrishna (Magadi) and Nayana Motamma (Mudigere), flew to New Delhi to push for their leader’s elevation. Meanwhile, Shivakumar received a high-profile, symbolic boost when a group of Naga sadhus visited his residence, blessed him, and urged him to “ascend to the chief minister’s chair.”
This move, seen by insiders as a final spiritual endorsement, has emboldened Shivakumar’s faction. Yet, the deputy CM continues to maintain diplomatic silence in public, insisting that the high command will decide.
Kharge emerges as a new contender pushed by civil society, leaders, and activists.
In a development that has reshaped the leadership debate, a group of Congress office-bearers, former MLAs, journalists, intellectuals and activists issued an open letter to Sonia Gandhi on November 22, urging the party to appoint Mallikarjun Kharge as Chief Minister.
The letter widely circulated in both Bengaluru and Delhi argues that Karnataka has failed to appoint a Dalit CM since its formation in 1956, despite the community’s unwavering loyalty to Congress. It states that elevating Kharge would “correct a historic injustice” and mark a transformative moment for representation.
The signatories praise Kharge’s integrity, decades of political experience, and strong grassroots connection as proof that he is best suited to lead Karnataka “at this critical political juncture.”
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said clearly that he would continue in the role if the high command so desired. His meeting with AICC president Kharge in Bengaluru, during which political developments were discussed at length, signalled that the leadership issue is now firmly in Delhi’s hands.
Kharge himself has remained cautious, issuing statements promoting party unity. However, his comments were interpreted by some as a subtle message to Shivakumar’s camp.
BJP MP Lahar Singh Siroya targeted the Congress high command over Kharge’s statements, alleging that the party suffers from “hereditary corruption” and questioning who truly leads the organisation.
“This confusion will worsen their situation in the coming elections. Whatever is going on in Congress is clearly affecting Karnataka,” he said.
Former MLC Mohan Kondaji acknowledged awareness of the letter backing Kharge but expressed concern only for the party’s collective success. “Kharge’s vast experience can bring everyone together,” he said.
