The political landscape of Karnataka is abuzz with speculation following cryptic social media posts from key Congress leaders, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. The posts, centered around the phrase "word power is world power," have reignited discussions about a potential power-sharing agreement between the two leaders.

D.K. Shivakumar's initial message on X, featuring the phrase "word power is world power," was widely interpreted as a reminder to the Congress high command to honor a supposed agreement made in May 2023. This agreement allegedly stipulated that Shivakumar would assume the Chief Minister's role midway through the government's five-year term. Sources close to Shivakumar claim that Siddaramaiah had committed to stepping down, a deadline that is fast approaching. The post also included the statement "The biggest force in the world was to keep one's word. Be it a judge, president or anyone else including myself, everyone has to walk the talk".

Adding fuel to the fire, Siddaramaiah echoed the same sentiment, reinforcing the idea that a significant understanding might be in play. The repetition of the phrase by both leaders has intensified speculation about the internal dynamics within the Karnataka Congress and the potential for a change in leadership.

The origins of this speculation trace back to the Congress party's victory in the 2023 Assembly elections. Following the win, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar vied for the Chief Minister's position. To resolve the impasse, a compromise was purportedly reached, with Siddaramaiah taking the helm for the first half of the term and Shivakumar expected to succeed him. However, neither the leaders nor the party have openly acknowledged this agreement.

fueling the rumors is Shivakumar's recent meeting with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi, a close associate of Siddaramaiah. Shivakumar stated that he sought Jarkiholi's support to ensure a Congress victory in the 2028 assembly elections.

Amidst the speculation, voices within the Congress party have begun to express differing opinions. Basavaraj Rayareddy, Siddaramaiah's financial advisor, asserted that the Chief Minister would not step aside unless directed by the party high command. This statement highlights the tension between the two factions and the uncertainty surrounding the leadership transition.

The Congress high command is reportedly aware of the situation and is likely to intervene to resolve the matter. There are reports that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar may be summoned to Delhi for further discussions with senior party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. The party's central leadership aims to find a solution that maintains stability and unity within the Karnataka Congress.

While the exact implications of the "word power is world power" messaging remain unclear, it is evident that the Karnataka Congress is navigating a complex leadership dynamic. The coming days are likely to be crucial as the party high command weighs its options and seeks to chart a course that ensures the continued success of the Congress-led government in Karnataka.