The Congress High Command has stepped in to address the escalating power struggle between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his Deputy, D. K. Shivakumar. The intervention comes amidst growing speculation about a leadership change, fueled by reports of a purported power-sharing agreement between the two leaders when the Congress party came to power in May 2023.
The tension reportedly stems from an alleged agreement where Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister for the first half of the five-year term, with Shivakumar taking over after 30 months. As the government crossed the halfway mark on November 20, Shivakumar's camp has been pressing the high command to honor the commitment. Shivakumar himself has alluded to a "confidential understanding" regarding the leadership transition. Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah's loyalists maintain that he should continue in the top post for the entire term. Some suggest Siddaramaiah is aiming to surpass D. Devaraj Urs's record as the longest-serving Chief Minister of Karnataka.
The Congress leadership is wary of the potential fallout from replacing Siddaramaiah. Sources indicate the party fears that replacing Siddaramaiah, who has cultivated a strong base of support among minorities, backward classes, and Dalits, could alienate this crucial vote bank. It's also believed that Rahul Gandhi has immense respect for Siddaramaiah. Furthermore, while Shivakumar is a prominent Vokkaliga leader, he doesn't command the full support of the community, which is divided between the Congress and the JD(S).
Adding to the complexity, some within the Congress are wary of acceding to Shivakumar's demands, especially after the party's recent defeat in Bihar. Delaying a decision on the leadership issue might be a strategy to buy time and avoid further destabilizing the party. However, reneging on a promise to Shivakumar could damage the high command's credibility.
In response to the escalating tensions, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has announced that he will meet with senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar, in New Delhi to discuss the issue and find a resolution. Kharge has emphasized the need to end the "confusion" surrounding the leadership question. The high command is keen to ensure discipline among party leaders and has warned against making unnecessary statements on the leadership issue.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara, a Siddaramaiah confidante, stated he would accept Shivakumar as Chief Minister if the high command decides on a transition. However, another aide, Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, asserted that Siddaramaiah would remain in the post until 2028.
The coming days will be crucial as the Congress high command attempts to navigate this delicate situation and broker peace between the two powerful leaders. The party's future in Karnataka, one of the few states where it currently holds power, hinges on finding a resolution that satisfies all parties involved and maintains stability in the government.
