Bengaluru’s political circles are buzzing with tension as the leadership tussle within Karnataka’s ruling Congress intensifies. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah firmly stated on Tuesday that the party’s high command decision will be final in resolving the ongoing power struggle.
This comes in response to recent comments from Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president DK Shivakumar, who claimed both leaders were clear on discussions held in the presence of party leadership. Siddaramaiah refrained from directly addressing Shivakumar’s statements, emphasizing, ‘I won’t comment on his remarks. Whatever the high command decides is final. Don’t ask questions at your whim. If he made a statement, ask him. I’m not aware. I’m ready for whatever the high command says.’
When pressed on plans to visit Delhi, the CM dismissed speculation, saying, ‘Why would I go to Delhi uninvited? I have budget preparation work here. If called, I’ll go.’
Explaining Shivakumar’s absence from a budget meeting, Siddaramaiah noted the Deputy CM had sought permission via letter to attend a Delhi meeting related to Assam assembly elections.
On the Supreme Court’s observation refusing to tolerate delays in the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, Siddaramaiah said he would study the matter before commenting. ‘I don’t know the context of the Supreme Court’s remark. I’ll review it and then respond.’
Earlier, Shivakumar asserted alignment with the CM on party leadership talks, urging party leaders to avoid public statements on leadership issues for the party’s sake. This was perceived as a subtle reference to comments by Siddaramaiah’s son and Congress MLC Yathindra, who claimed the CM would complete his full term, with central leadership rejecting removal attempts.
As Karnataka gears up for budget sessions, the high command’s intervention could reshape the state’s political landscape, with both leaders signaling deference to Delhi’s call. The coming days will reveal if unity prevails or if cracks deepen ahead of future elections.