The leadership struggle inside the Karnataka Congress grew sharper this week after chief minister Siddaramaiah publicly urged the party’s central leaders to “put a full stop to the confusion.” At the same time, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar confirmed the existence of a “secret deal” on power-sharing among “five-six” senior leaders, though he avoided giving any details.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has said the matter will be resolved only after consultations with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
Shivakumar Confirms ‘Secret Deal’ but Stays Silent on Details
During a visit to Kanakapura, Shivakumar admitted that a “secret deal between five-six of us” existed about the chief minister’s post. However, he refused to elaborate, saying he did not want to “embarrass or weaken the party.”
Siddaramaiah Asks High Command to End the Uncertainty
Speaking in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah said only the central leadership could end the ongoing debate:
“Ultimately, the high command has to take a decision… to put a full stop to this confusion.”
Kharge Says the Issue Will Be Settled at the Top
Mallikarjun Kharge made it clear that the leadership matter “is not a subject to be discussed in public.” He said the final decision would be taken by him, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi after internal discussions.
2023 Power-Sharing Pact Resurfaces
Congress insiders claim that a power-sharing deal was agreed upon in May 2023 at Kharge’s residence. As per the understanding, Siddaramaiah would serve as CM for the first 2.5 years, followed by Shivakumar for the rest of the term. Siddaramaiah’s alleged assurance “I will resign one week before completing 2.5 years” — is now being widely discussed.
Siddaramaiah’s Tone Changes After Meeting Kharge
For months, Siddaramaiah maintained that “the Congress government will complete five years,” and that he would remain CM for the entire term. His stance softened after his meeting with Kharge on November 22, after which he began saying the “high command will decide.”
Shivakumar Camp Seeks Clarity, Emphasises Loyalty
Supporters of Shivakumar say he does not want any confrontation and will remain loyal. However, they insist the earlier “understanding” must be honoured. They argue that ignoring it would hurt the party’s credibility and demoralise an organisationally strong leader like Shivakumar.
Siddaramaiah Camp Denies Any Deal
Leaders backing Siddaramaiah reject the claim of any pact. They highlight his election as CLP leader in 2023 and say the idea of replacing a chief minister should only be discussed formally within the legislature party.
Both Leaders Avoid Direct Attacks, Talk Unity
Despite the tension, both sides have avoided personal criticism. Shivakumar called Siddaramaiah “a senior leader” and “an asset,” and supported his plan to present the next Budget. Siddaramaiah said MLAs may go to Delhi but must finally follow the high command’s decision.
Lobbying in Delhi Picks Up Pace
Several MLAs supporting Shivakumar have travelled to Delhi. Siddaramaiah responded by saying, “Let them go… let’s see what opinion they give.” Party insiders say Shivakumar wants the leadership issue settled before any Cabinet reshuffle.
Opposition Targets Congress Ahead of Winter Session
BJP state president BY Vijayendra said Karnataka “does not want an acting or outgoing CM” and urged the Congress to resolve the crisis before the winter session in Belagavi.
Final Call Lies With Congress High Command
With both camps acknowledging the confusion but shifting responsibility to the central leaders, the final decision will be made by Congress’s top trio Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
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