Discussions regarding a significant leadership change within the Karnataka Congress have intensified once again, drawing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to Delhi. Both leaders have been summoned for a crucial meeting at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's residence on Tuesday morning, with Rahul Gandhi also expected to be in attendance.
Renewed Power-Sharing Debates
The current political stir reopens a chapter from 2023, when the Congress secured a decisive victory in Karnataka. At that time, both Siddaramaiah, a prominent figure from the AHINDA community, and Shivakumar, a key Vokkaliga leader, were strong contenders for the Chief Minister's post. Following days of intense lobbying, Siddaramaiah was appointed Chief Minister, while Shivakumar took on the role of Deputy Chief Minister.
It was widely reported that the Congress high command had brokered a power-sharing arrangement, suggesting Siddaramaiah would serve as CM for the initial 2.5 years, with Shivakumar slated to take over thereafter. Siddaramaiah completed this reported tenure in November 2025, leading to the current wave of speculation and internal discussions.
Crucial Delhi Deliberations
Sources indicate that the upcoming Delhi meeting is far from routine. It is expected to focus on Karnataka's leadership dynamics and strategize for the 2028 assembly elections. The party's central leadership reportedly believes a fresh approach is necessary within the government to ensure optimal preparedness for the next electoral cycle.
Potential Paths Forward
Three primary options are reportedly on the table for addressing the Karnataka leadership question:
- Cabinet Reshuffle: The least disruptive approach involves a cabinet reshuffle, where underperforming ministers are replaced. This option aims to improve the caste equations by giving more representation to AHINDA communities and incorporating Shivakumar's input, ensuring changes are made with the consent of both leaders.
- Shivakumar as Chief Minister: This is the most discussed proposal. It suggests elevating DK Shivakumar to the Chief Minister's position and potentially sending Siddaramaiah to the Rajya Sabha. This move is seen as a way to reward party loyalty and effort, while also attempting to unify the party's factions before the 2028 elections.
- Mallikarjun Kharge as Chief Minister: Considered the least likely scenario, this option would see Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, a native of Karnataka, appointed as CM if Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar fail to reach an agreement. However, this path is deemed highly improbable due to the significant disruption it would cause to the Congress's national leadership structure in Delhi.
Adding to the political activity in Karnataka are ongoing discussions surrounding three Rajya Sabha seats and nine Legislative Council seats. These selections could further highlight internal party equations and factionalism, making the Delhi meeting a critical juncture for the state's political future and the Congress party's stability.