Who Holds Cards In Congress’ Siddaramaiah-DK Shivakumar Karnataka Showdown
The simmering tension within the Karnataka Congress has now erupted into a visible leadership tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. What was once whispered in political corridors is now openly acknowledged—a power struggle that could shape the future of the party in the state.
The Congress, which returned to power in Karnataka in 2023 with a thumping majority, had temporarily managed a delicate power-sharing arrangement. Siddaramaiah, a seasoned politician and mass leader, was appointed Chief Minister, while DK Shivakumar, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief and key strategist behind the party’s electoral victory, was made Deputy CM. The agreement was intended to keep both factions satisfied and maintain party cohesion.
However, tensions have been building over governance issues, cabinet control, and policy direction. Shivakumar’s camp reportedly feels sidelined in decision-making processes, while Siddaramaiah’s supporters argue that the CM deserves autonomy in running the government. The situation has been exacerbated by conflicting statements made by leaders from both camps and increasing factionalism at the grassroots level.
Recent developments, including differing opinions on budget allocations, developmental priorities, and political appointments, have made it clear that the rift is widening. Political observers believe that Shivakumar’s ambition to succeed Siddaramaiah as CM—possibly mid-term, as rumored in the power-sharing deal—is adding to the friction.
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The Congress high command in Delhi is said to be closely monitoring the situation, concerned that public infighting could damage the party’s image ahead of the 2026 Karnataka Assembly and 2029 General Elections. A divided leadership could offer the BJP and JD(S) the opportunity to regain lost ground.
If not addressed promptly, the Siddaramaiah vs Shivakumar rivalry could destabilize the Congress government in Karnataka and derail its larger political aspirations. For now, the party walks a tightrope, hoping to contain internal dissent before it spirals into a full-blown crisis.
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