Karnataka Congress Crisis Escalates: Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar Engage in 'Word' War
Image Source: Internet
A bitter power struggle within the Karnataka Congress has intensified, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar trading barbs over the value of keeping promises. The dispute centers around a reported '2.5-year formula' that allegedly guarantees each leader a two-and-a-half-year term as chief minister. The controversy began with Shivakumar, widely seen as Siddaramaiah's successor, posting on social media about the importance of keeping one's word. He hinted at a 'secret deal' made after the 2023 election victory, which he claimed would see him take over as chief minister in the second half of the term. Siddaramaiah responded swiftly, listing his achievements and reiterating his commitment to serving the full five-year term. He emphasized that the people's mandate is a responsibility that lasts the entire term, and that his party's word means the world to the people of Karnataka. The '2.5-year formula' has been at the heart of Congress crises in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in recent years, with the party losing power in the subsequent elections. The formula typically involves a half-and-half deal between an older leader and a younger successor. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has urged the party to maintain discipline and let the high command make decisions on the leadership. However, the crisis in Karnataka shows no signs of abating, with the party struggling to navigate the generational shift and the power struggle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.
