Karnataka Leadership Row: Shivakumar Stands by Pact
The leadership debate within the Congress government in Karnataka resurfaced after Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar said that he, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the party’s high command are bound by an agreed understanding on leadership matters.
Statement on Leadership Understanding
Shivakumar said there is a clear pact involving the Chief Minister, himself, and the Congress leadership in Delhi, and that all sides are committed to honouring it. He added that decisions on leadership rest solely with the party high command and not with individual leaders or public speculation.
CM’s Position Reiterated
The remarks come amid repeated statements by Siddaramaiah that he intends to complete the full five-year term as Chief Minister unless the party leadership decides otherwise. Siddaramaiah has publicly dismissed claims of a formal power-sharing formula or a fixed timeline for a leadership change.
Waiting for High Command’s Call
Shivakumar said both leaders are prepared to meet the Congress high command whenever summoned and will follow its directions. He stressed that internal discussions should not be driven by media reports or political rumours.
Political Background
Speculation over leadership has persisted since the Congress returned to power in Karnataka. Party leaders have repeatedly sought to project unity, stating that governance priorities take precedence over internal debates.
