The political drama in Karnataka has intensified this week. As speculation swirls over who will hold the Chief Minister’s post, the national leadership of the Indian National Congress (INC) has decided to intervene. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge announced plans to call a meeting in New Delhi. The gathering will include Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar, and other senior leaders. The aim: end confusion and take a final decision on who leads the state.
This move comes after growing restlessness within the party, frequent speculation in the media, and a cryptic message by the Deputy CM that triggered fresh debate about a possible leadership change.
Cryptic Post by DK Shivakumar Stirs Fresh Speculation
On Wednesday, Shivakumar shared a social media post that captured attention across Karnataka. It read: “Word power is world power. The biggest force in the world is to keep one’s word.” Many interpreted these lines as a reminder of a purported 2023 agreement under which he would become CM halfway through the five-year term.
ಕೊಟ್ಟ ಮಾತು ಉಳಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದೇ ವಿಶ್ವದಲ್ಲಿರುವ ದೊಡ್ಡ ಶಕ್ತಿ! pic.twitter.com/klregNRUtv
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) November 27, 2025
The post struck a chord because it seemed to revive hopes — and demands — among his supporters for a mid‑term power transfer. The tension escalated when a late‑night meeting between Shivakumar and influential minister Satish Jarkiholi added to rumours of shifting loyalties.
Siddaramaiah Pushes Back, Asks for Clarity
Siddaramaiah, however, pushed back strongly against speculation. He urged that only the party high command can decide on any leadership change, and said he would follow the top brass’s decision. He also noted he’d accept their call to go to Delhi for talks.
He met senior ministers and state Congress leaders at his residence, underscoring his intent to hold onto the Chief Minister post. Officials close to him claimed the reshuffle rumours and campaign for change risk destabilising governance.
Congress High Command Aims to End Internal Conflict
With open conflict brewing, Mallikarjun Kharge moved to broker a solution. He said he would summon key leaders — including party elders — to weigh in and decide. He admitted the issue has sparked “confusion” and acknowledged the urgency to settle the matter.
The meeting signals an effort to close ranks and restore coherence in the party ahead of future elections. Many in the grassroots hope this will put an end to uncertainty at the top.
What does this tussle mean for Karnataka?
This internal strife within Congress comes at a delicate time. The government completes half its term in 2025, and rival parties are watching closely for signs of instability. Public confidence could erode if the leadership conflict drags on without resolution.
Some senior party voices even suggest alternative candidates — outside of the tussling duo — if the uncertainty doesn’t end soon. That shows how wide the rift may now be.
At stake is not just who becomes Chief Minister, but how smoothly the state’s government can continue functioning. Important decisions like budget planning, development work, and governance reform may stall if the infighting persists.
