Bengaluru: In a bid to douse the smouldering embers of an internal power tussle, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah extended a breakfast invitation to his deputy, D K Shivakumar, on Saturday, signalling a potential thaw in the Congress’ fractious state unit.
The move comes amid escalating whispers of a leadership swap, just as the Siddaramaiah government’s 2.5-year tenure nears its informal midpoint – marked dramatically by Shivakumar’s camp on November 20.
Sources close to the development reveal that an unwritten pact from May 2023 envisioned a rotational chief ministership between the duo, fuelling speculation of an imminent handover. However, as the state assembly session approaches on December 8, the Congress high command has issued a firm directive to resolve the issue internally, without the intervention of Delhi.
Over a spread of traditional South Indian fare, the two stalwarts huddled to iron out differences, with Siddaramaiah underscoring his allegiance to the party’s top brass. “The high command instructed us to meet and deliberate. My position remains clear— whatever they decide, I shall abide,” the seasoned leader affirmed, exuding calm amid the storm.
Shivakumar, ever the pragmatist, brushed aside ambitions, quipping, “Our workers are buzzing with enthusiasm, but I have no haste. All calls rest with the party.”
At the heart of this delicate dance lies Karnataka’s intricate caste arithmetic. Siddaramaiah, a towering figure from the Kuruba (OBC) community, draws robust backing from Dalits and minorities, cementing his indispensability. Shivakumar, hailing from the politically-potent Vokkaliga fold, eyes the top post to consolidate his clan’s sway. What is the subtle nudge from the high command? Preserve equilibrium between these influential blocs to avert a deeper schism that could unravel the government’s cohesion.
As plates cleared and teacups emptied, the air hummed with cautious optimism. Will this culinary conclave herald harmony or merely a temporary ceasefire? For Karnataka’s Congress faithful, the real feast lies in the unfolding resolution — one that could redefine the state’s political menu for the foreseeable future.