Bengaluru: Karnataka’s political landscape is witnessing intense churn as a power tussle between Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah takes centre stage. The battle for the chief minister’s chair has grown sharper, exposing visible cracks within the Congress party and putting the party leadership under mounting pressure.
At the heart of the controversy lies the unresolved question of leadership. D.K. Shivakumar, one of the most influential faces of the Karnataka Congress, has steadily strengthened his political grip in the state. Known for his strong organisational control and deep connect with party workers, Shivakumar believes his experience, mass appeal and long-standing contribution to the party make him the natural claimant to the top post. He has reportedly made it clear that he is not inclined to settle for anything less than the chief minister’s position.
On the other hand, Siddaramaiah, who currently occupies the chief minister’s chair, is equally firm about continuing in office. With a loyal support base within the party and among legislators, Siddaramaiah’s camp argues that any move to dislodge him would destabilise the government and go against party interests. His supporters remain committed to his leadership and see any challenge to his position as an internal rebellion.
This growing face-off has placed the Congress high command in a tight spot. What was once a leadership arrangement has now turned into a full-blown crisis, highlighting strategic weaknesses within the party. Political observers warn that if the dispute is not resolved in time, it could have serious repercussions in future Assembly elections, especially when the party needs to focus on governance and organisational strengthening in Karnataka.
According to political analysts, failure by the party leadership—particularly Rahul Gandhi—to mediate effectively could cost Congress dearly. The conflict is no longer limited to the two leaders; their supporters have formed rival camps. There are even reports suggesting that some Shivakumar loyalists have discreetly explored channels with the BJP, a development that has alarmed the Congress leadership and raised fears of possible internal fragmentation.
While the party high command has maintained public silence, sources indicate that Rahul Gandhi has begun hearing both sides before taking a final call. Both factions have conveyed their arguments to the leadership and expressed hope that the eventual decision will be acceptable. However, on the political ground, reconciliation appears difficult, given the strong ambitions and limited room for compromise on either side.
The episode has also exposed a perceived lack of decisive leadership within the party. Prolonged uncertainty could demoralise workers and provide ammunition to opposition parties, which are already projecting the situation as evidence of Congress’s internal discord. If mishandled, the crisis could even threaten the stability of the Karnataka government.
For Congress, the challenge is clear: restore unity, strike a balance between two towering leaders, and refocus on governance and electoral preparedness. The battle for Karnataka’s chief ministerial post has now become more than a fight for power—it is a contest that could shape the party’s future direction in the state and beyond. All eyes remain on Rahul Gandhi, whose decision is expected to play a decisive role not only in Karnataka politics but also in the Congress party’s national narrative
