The power struggle within the Congress-led Karnataka government intensified on Thursday as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said he will travel to Delhi if asked by the party high command. At the same time, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar sparked fresh speculation with a cryptic social media post stressing the importance of keeping one’s word.
Power-Sharing Debate Returns to Spotlight
Since Congress returned to power in Karnataka in March 2023, discussions have continued about an internal power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. The arrangement, reportedly supported by the party’s central leadership, suggested a transfer of the chief minister’s post after two and a half years.
In recent months, speculation has grown stronger. Siddaramaiah has hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle while asserting that he will continue as chief minister. Meanwhile, supporters of Shivakumar have actively campaigned for his elevation both in Bengaluru and in Delhi.
Shivakumar’s Cryptic Post Raises Eyebrows
The political chatter escalated when Shivakumar shared an image on X with the caption, “Keeping one’s word is the greatest strength in the world!”
The image text read:
“Word power is world power… The biggest force in the world is to keep one’s word. Whether it is a judge, a president or anyone else, including myself, everyone has to walk the talk.”
The post quickly drew attention, seen by many as a subtle reminder of the reported power-sharing pact.
Kharge Calls for High-Level Meeting in Delhi
In an effort to end the escalating confusion, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced that he will convene a meeting in New Delhi. Senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar will be invited to resolve the leadership issue.
Kharge said the goal is to “discuss the way forward and settle the issue,” adding that both the chief minister and the deputy chief minister would be called for deliberations.
“We will call them, discuss with them, and settle the issue. After talking to everyone, a decision will be made,” Kharge said, as quoted by PTI.
‘Party Comes First,’ Says Shivakumar
Responding to Kharge’s announcement, Shivakumar said he remains committed to the party’s unity.
“For us, the party is more important than everything. I am not claiming anything right now. We will work together in the best interest of the party. The success of the party matters more than individual ambitions,” he told reporters.
Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah met several senior ministers and party leaders considered close to him at his residence, including G Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, HC Mahadevappa, K Venkatesh, and KN Rajanna, according to official sources.
