Karnataka Power Struggle Enters New Phase
In Bengaluru’s ruling Congress party, internal leadership tensions have resurfaced as several MLAs aligned with Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar traveled to Delhi to press their demand for his elevation to the Chief Minister’s post. This occurred ahead of a meeting between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru, which also saw efforts by other MLAs to lobby for ministerial berths. The gathering in Delhi and the rising clout of the Shivakumar camp have added momentum to speculation of a leadership change in Karnataka’s Congress government.
Siddaramaiah Maintains Control, BJP Says Time Running Out
Siddaramaiah responded by emphasising his resolve to complete the full five-year term and present the next state budget, signalling no immediate intention to step aside. Meanwhile, the BJP flagged the internal strife as a threat to government stability, suggesting the power play could precipitate early elections. The Congress high command has yet to issue any public directives, indicating that the final decision rests with the national leadership.
Implications For State Governance
The growing factionalism has implications for key governance decisions, including the timing and extent of a possible cabinet reshuffle. With a mid-term point reached in the state government’s tenure, the leadership contest may affect policy continuity, administrative discipline and the party’s image ahead of future polls. Vigilance by the national office and the state unit will decide whether the issue remains a matter of intra-party negotiation or evolves into a full-blown crisis.
