Bengaluru: Fresh political ripples have emerged within the Karnataka Congress after more than 40 MLAs considered loyal to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar gathered at a private hotel in Bengaluru for a dinner meeting, sparking speculation about renewed leadership tensions and a possible show of strength within the ruling party.
The meeting, held on February 26 night under the pretext of Magadi MLA H.C. Balakrishna’s birthday celebration, has drawn significant political attention. While officially described as a social gathering, the presence of a large number of legislators aligned with Shivakumar has intensified discussions around the ongoing power-sharing debate between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.
Sources indicate that while 40 MLAs took part, nearly 20 others who had been contacted were reportedly unable to attend due to personal commitments, travel, or family functions. Ministers and senior legislators, including prominent figures from different regions, were present at the gathering, highlighting the scale and significance of the event. Photographs of the legislators sitting together were widely circulated on social media, further fueling speculation about internal political maneuvering.
Speaking to reporters, Magadi MLA H.C. Balakrishna downplayed the political significance of the meeting, stating that it was merely a birthday dinner. However, he also acknowledged that the leadership uncertainty within the party must be resolved by the Congress high command. He emphasized that clarity on leadership whether related to the Chief Minister’s post or party organization is essential to maintain unity and strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
Channagiri MLA Shivaganga Basavaraj admitted that leadership issues were discussed during the gathering. He said there was nothing wrong in legislators expressing their views and urged the party high command to take a final decision to end confusion. According to him, prolonged uncertainty could impact governance and electoral prospects.
Other leaders present attempted to project the meeting as informal and friendly. MLA Ravi Ganiga clarified that there was no official political agenda and described the event as a casual get-together among colleagues. However, political observers believe the timing and scale of the gathering indicate a calculated effort to demonstrate Shivakumar’s support base within the legislature party.
Sources suggest that some legislators reportedly expressed the view that commitments made earlier should be honored, and clarity on leadership transition should be ensured to avoid further internal friction.
The development comes amid recurring reports of factional undercurrents between supporters of Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. Both leaders are influential figures within the Congress, and their supporters have periodically held separate meetings.
Insiders indicate that Shivakumar loyalists may plan further meetings in Bengaluru and could even travel to New Delhi to meet senior Congress leadership.
With the budget session and future electoral battles approaching, the Congress high command looks to be under intense pressure on leadership of the state.
