Congress High Command Seeks to Resolve Rift Between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar

The Congress high command has reportedly stepped in to address the growing rift between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, with sources indicating that the party leadership is unhappy with the ongoing power struggle. The tussle for supremacy between the two leaders has intensified, particularly after the government crossed the halfway mark of its term on November 20, reviving discussions of a 2023 power-sharing agreement.

Speculation about a potential change in leadership has been fueled by public exchanges and differing opinions among ministers. Home Minister G. Parameshwara, a Siddaramaiah confidante, stated he would accept DK Shivakumar as Chief Minister if the party decided on a transition. However, Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, another Siddaramaiah aide, asserted that the Chief Minister would remain in his position until 2028.

The Congress high command has acknowledged the crisis and is planning to intervene to make a final decision. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge stated that he, along with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, would discuss the matter and aim to resolve the issue. Sources suggest that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar may be summoned to Delhi for discussions to settle the leadership question and put an end to the ongoing speculation.

DK Shivakumar has affirmed his willingness to adhere to the party's decision, referring to Delhi as the Congress party's "temple" and stating that he would visit whenever called by the high command. He also dismissed caste-driven interpretations of support, emphasizing his commitment to all sections of society. Shivakumar has stated he is in "no hurry" regarding leadership matters and that the Congress high command will make all decisions.

Siddaramaiah has also indicated that the party high command suggested he meet with Shivakumar. He said he would obey whatever the party high command decides on the power-sharing struggle.

The opposition BJP has criticized the Congress leadership crisis, with BJP state president BY Vijayendra arguing that governance has stalled due to the power struggle. The BJP has demanded clarity on the chief ministership or called for fresh elections.

The outcome of the Congress high command's intervention remains uncertain. However, the party is keen to resolve the issue quickly to restore stability and focus on governance in Karnataka. The coming days are crucial as the Congress leadership seeks to find a solution that satisfies both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar while maintaining unity within the party.