The seeds of the current crisis within the Karnataka Congress, pitting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah against his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar, were sown approximately two and a half years ago, during the formation of the government. The Congress high command is likely to summon both leaders to Delhi in an attempt to resolve the escalating leadership crisis.
The core of the issue revolves around a purported power-sharing agreement made in 2023, after Congress won the assembly elections. According to this alleged agreement, Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister for the first half of the five-year term, with Shivakumar then taking over. With the government crossing the halfway mark on November 20, 2025, Shivakumar's camp has been increasingly vocal about the promised transition. However, Siddaramaiah's loyalists have staunchly denied the existence of any such agreement, asserting his continued support within the Congress legislature.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shivakumar publicly stated that a "confidential understanding on leadership transition" existed among a select few leaders following the 2023 victory. This statement was followed by a flurry of activity, with several legislators aligned with Shivakumar traveling to Delhi to urge the central leadership to make an immediate decision regarding the Chief Ministership. At the same time, Siddaramaiah has been making efforts to consolidate his support, communicating to the high command that the uncertainty surrounding the transition needs to end. He convened meetings with senior ministers, further signaling his intent to retain his position.
The Congress high command's intervention comes in the wake of increasing pressure to address the brewing conflict. Party managers have reportedly recommended intervention to settle the simmering feud and leadership issues. The high command is keen to resolve the matter amicably before the winter session of Parliament begins. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has confirmed that the leadership crisis will be resolved soon, with Sonia and Rahul Gandhi expected to be involved in the discussions.
The situation is further complicated by caste dynamics and the involvement of religious leaders. The Vokkaliga Sangha, a prominent community organization, has warned the Congress against any "injustice" towards Shivakumar, who is a Vokkaliga leader. Influential religious leaders and senior ministers have also stepped in, adding new dimensions to the already complex political situation.
The BJP, the opposition party, has seized the opportunity to criticize the Congress, with leaders like CN Ravi stating that the people of Karnataka want the Congress government removed, rather than just a change in Chief Minister. The BJP is urging the Congress to settle its leadership tussle before the winter session of the legislature begins in Belagavi in December.
The coming days are crucial for the Karnataka Congress, with the high command expected to make a final decision on the leadership issue. The outcome will not only determine the future of the state government but also have significant implications for the party's stability and prospects in the upcoming elections.
