The political climate in Karnataka has been tense, but a breakfast meeting between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar took place today, signaling a possible truce in the ongoing power struggle within the ruling Congress party. The meeting was convened at the behest of the Congress high command, who instructed both leaders to address the simmering dispute over power-sharing that has persisted as the government reached its halfway mark.

Siddaramaiah extended the invitation to Shivakumar following pressure from the party's central leadership, aiming to resolve the leadership standoff. The breakfast meeting, held at Siddaramaiah's official residence, marks the first direct conversation between the two leaders since demands for a change in leadership grew louder from Shivakumar's camp.

The core of the dispute lies in claims from Shivakumar's supporters that an agreement was made in 2023, when Siddaramaiah was appointed Chief Minister, to rotate the position, making Shivakumar the head of the government after two and a half years. These supporters are now urging the party leadership to honor this alleged agreement. Siddaramaiah, however, has denied the existence of any such agreement. Speaking to reporters, he stated that the meeting was convened on the instructions of the party leadership. He further added that he would adhere to the directives of the high command.

Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Congress unit president, has indicated his willingness to meet with the party leadership in Delhi but emphasized that he is "not in a hurry" for the Chief Minister's position. He stated that he would accept whatever decision the party makes.

Meanwhile, voices within the Congress party have attempted to downplay the conflict. Congress MLA Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of the Chief Minister, dismissed the speculation surrounding a leadership change, calling the controversy a "media creation".

The opposition BJP has warned that it may increase political pressure if the internal unrest within the Congress persists. BJP leaders have also raised the possibility of a "dark horse" candidate emerging if the situation remains unresolved.

The Congress leadership seems to be hinting that Siddaramaiah is not likely to be replaced immediately, given his strong support base within the OBC Kuruba community, as well as among Dalits and minorities. This could be a reason for Shivakumar's intensified efforts to seek clarity regarding his prospects for becoming Chief Minister.

Looking ahead, the Congress high command may summon both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to Delhi to further discuss the issue. The meeting between the two leaders gains significance as it precedes the commencement of the Parliament Session on December 1 and the Winter Session of the Karnataka Legislature on December 8. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the breakfast meeting can truly pave the way for a lasting resolution or if the power transition remains a contentious issue within the Karnataka Congress.