Karnataka Congress Faces Strain as Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar Dig In
BENGALURU - The Karnataka Congress government is facing mounting internal pressure due to a power struggle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. The crux of the issue lies in an alleged agreement made following the Congress victory in May 2023, stipulating that Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister for the first two and a half years, after which Shivakumar would assume the position. As the halfway point of the government's term arrives, this understanding is now being contested, creating uncertainty and raising concerns about the stability of the government.
Siddaramaiah, bolstered by strong support from Ahinda groups (minorities, backward classes, and Dalits) and his administrative experience, is reportedly showing no signs of stepping aside. Sources indicate he intends to complete the full five-year term and is actively consolidating his position. Recent actions, such as a written communication asserting his authority, are viewed as a deliberate attempt to demonstrate his continued leadership and ability to withstand political challenges. Some loyalists are even suggesting the creation of multiple Deputy Chief Minister posts representing different communities, a move that could potentially dilute Shivakumar's influence.
On the other side, Shivakumar's camp insists that the original "rotation" agreement must be honored. Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress president, draws his strength from the Vokkaliga community and his organizational control within the party. His supporters are quietly rallying support among MLAs and party members to push for the agreed-upon transition. They have been appealing to the Congress high command to uphold the alleged 50-50 agreement. D.K. Shivakumar and his brother, D.K. Suresh, are reportedly increasing pressure on the high command to ensure a timely handover of power, citing their loyalty and the commitments made to them.
The Congress high command's silence on the matter has further fueled the tension and created uncertainty about the government's future. Political analysts suggest that this silence has allowed the conflict to fester, potentially destabilizing the government. Some observers draw parallels to past internal conflicts within the Congress party in states like Rajasthan and Punjab, where similar leadership squabbles created opportunities for the opposition.
The ongoing power struggle is reportedly affecting governance in Karnataka. BJP spokesperson Vijay Prasad has stated that the "civil war inside the Congress government" is causing administrative paralysis, with development projects stalled and law and order deteriorating. The public infighting sends a negative message and could damage the party's image, especially after recent electoral setbacks.
With the Karnataka Legislative Assembly session approaching, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial. Congress leaders are preparing for critical talks with the high command in an attempt to resolve the issue. While Shivakumar has publicly denied any plans to rebel and maintains that both leaders will abide by the party's instructions, many believe his supporters are preparing for a strategic showdown behind the scenes. The resolution of this leadership crisis will be vital for the stability and effective governance of Karnataka.
