The recent buzz surrounding a perceived rift within the Karnataka Congress, particularly between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, has intensified, fueled by reports that Rahul Gandhi declined to meet with either leader during their recent visit to Delhi. This development has triggered jibes from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), adding another layer to the ongoing political drama in the state.

According to sources within the Congress party, Rahul Gandhi's decision to avoid meeting with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar was a deliberate move to avoid fueling speculation about a potential leadership change in Karnataka. Both the CM and DCM had reportedly sought appointments with Rahul Gandhi, but no meeting occurred. The Congress high command apparently decided to steer clear of the power-sharing dynamic in Karnataka. It was felt that a meeting at this juncture could have triggered more confusion within the party ranks, especially with the media already running stories about a possible change in leadership.

The BJP has seized upon this perceived snub, with party leaders suggesting that the lack of a meeting indicates a lack of confidence in Siddaramaiah's leadership and a growing rift within the Congress. They have labeled the situation a "humiliation" for the Chief Minister, using it as an opportunity to attack the stability and unity of the Congress government in Karnataka.

This is not the first time that reports of factionalism between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have surfaced. Since Congress's victory in the 2023 Assembly elections, there have been whispers of a power struggle between the two leaders, particularly regarding the Chief Minister's post. While Siddaramaiah was ultimately chosen as the Chief Minister, Shivakumar, who also serves as the chief of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), was appointed as his deputy.

In the past, the party high command has intervened to urge both leaders to work together and maintain unity. In July 2024, amidst reports of factionalism following the Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi reportedly met with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, emphasizing the need for coordination and a focus on strengthening the party. He also asked them to analyze the reasons behind the party's underperformance in the Lok Sabha elections.

Despite these efforts, tensions appear to persist. The current situation highlights the challenges the Congress party faces in managing internal dynamics and maintaining a united front, especially in a crucial state like Karnataka. The BJP is likely to continue to exploit these perceived divisions to undermine the Congress government and gain political advantage.

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar did meet with Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala to finalize appointments for boards and corporations, with a focus on appointing loyal party workers. As of July 11, 2025, both leaders were expected to return to Bengaluru on Friday morning.