Karnataka Power Struggle: Shivakumar Admits 'Secret Deal' for Top Post, Party Leadership Stays Mum
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In a surprise revelation, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar acknowledged that there is a 'secret deal' among a group of Congress leaders regarding the chief minister's post, but refused to disclose details, citing concerns of embarrassing or weakening the party. This admission comes as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has been seeking a decision from the party's central leadership to end the ongoing power struggle in the state. The power struggle has been simmering since the Congress won the Karnataka assembly elections in March 2023, with speculation surrounding an alleged agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar on a power transfer after two-and-half-years. However, supporters of the deputy chief minister claim that there is a deal, while those close to the chief minister insist that no such agreement exists. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge declined to comment on the issue, stating that it's not something to be discussed publicly. Kharge's position is in contrast to his previous stance, where he had sought a decision from the party's central leadership to end the confusion. Shivakumar's comments have sparked a new wave of debate, with some party leaders demanding clarity from the party leadership. Despite his refusal to disclose details, Shivakumar's supporters claim that he has the backing of a large number of MLAs and believes that the party should respect the understanding while ensuring that Siddaramaiah continues to play a role if the transition happens. The power struggle in Karnataka has reached a critical juncture, with the party's central leadership expected to make a decision soon to end the confusion. Meanwhile, the party's MLAs are divided, with some traveling to Delhi to lobby the party's leadership, while others are demanding clarity on the leadership issue.
