Karnataka Power Struggle: CM Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar's Breakfast Meeting Amid Leadership Crisis
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A leadership crisis is brewing in Karnataka's Congress-led government, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar at the center of the storm. The power struggle has been ongoing for months, with speculation surrounding a possible leadership change. In 2023, the Congress party returned to power in Karnataka with a decisive majority, and a 'rotational' chief minister deal was reportedly struck between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. Under this arrangement, Shivakumar was to assume office after two and a half years, but with the party completing half its tenure, speculation has resurfaced about whether Shivakumar will take over. Shivakumar has recently denied holding talks with the Congress high command on replacing Siddaramaiah, saying he was 'not in a hurry' for anything. However, his cryptic social media posts have kept the buzz alive about him eyeing the top spot. In response, Siddaramaiah has cited the 'mandate given by the people' and said he plans to complete his full term of five years, ending in 2028. The situation took a turn when Shivakumar suggested stepping down as Karnataka Congress chief, saying he couldn't hold the post 'permanently'. He also expressed his desire to make way for others. This has sparked further speculation about a leadership change. A key Strategy Group meeting of the Congress high command is scheduled for November 30, where senior leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi will discuss the Karnataka leadership tussle. Siddaramaiah has said he would fly to New Delhi if summoned by the high command, while Shivakumar has indicated he would travel to the national capital on December 1. The meeting between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar over breakfast is seen as a significant development, with both leaders reportedly set to discuss the ongoing crisis. The outcome of this meeting and the Strategy Group meeting will have a significant impact on the fate of the Karnataka government.
