Table of Contents
- Background of the Karnataka CM Tussle
- Key Developments in the Power Struggle
- Reactions, Political Analysis & Inside Equations
- Conclusion: What’s Next for Karnataka Politics?
Background of the Karnataka CM Tussle
The ongoing Karnataka CM tussle is no less dramatic than a political thriller, with twists that have kept analysts, party workers, and the public glued to every development. The Congress Party, which returned to power in Karnataka in 2023 with a massive mandate, had barely completed half of its five-year term when internal cracks resurfaced—cracks many believe were never fully sealed.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a mass leader known for drawing strong support from OBCs, minorities, Dalits, and tribal communities, has maintained that he will continue in office until 2028. His deputy, DK Shivakumar, a Vokkaliga strongman often called the Congress’s “troubleshooter,” believes a leadership change is overdue based on an internal “power-sharing formula.”
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The origin of the conflict reportedly lies in the Congress’ promise during 2023 government formation. The party, eager to keep both leaders aligned, allegedly agreed to a “2.5-year formula”—Siddaramaiah would lead the first half, while Shivakumar would take charge in the second half. The party has faced similar crises earlier in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, where indecision cost it entire states. Karnataka, however, is much higher stake.
The leadership debate, which simmered quietly for months, burst into the open this week after a series of secret meetings, cryptic posts, ministerial contradictions, and silent political manoeuvring. The drama has now shifted 1,800 km away from Bengaluru to New Delhi—home to the Congress high command, which will have the final say.
Key Developments in the Power Struggle
The latest escalation in the Karnataka CM tussle began with parallel lobbying efforts by both camps. Nearly ten MLAs loyal to Shivakumar travelled to Delhi, signalling urgency in pushing for a leadership change.
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Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah reportedly held multiple closed-door meetings with his own supporters, urging them to stand firm as he pressed for a Cabinet reshuffle—widely seen as an attempt to cement his control.
1. Kharge Steps In: High Command Summons Key Leaders
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced that senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar, would be called to Delhi for a final decision.
Kharge said, “The entire high command team will discuss and put an end to the confusion.” This statement confirmed two things:
- The crisis has reached a point where only top-level intervention can resolve it.
- The leadership vacuum could affect governance if left to drag on.
2. Rift in Siddaramaiah’s Camp?
A surprising twist occurred when Home Minister G Parameshwara, a close Siddaramaiah aide, said he had “no objection” if the high command made Shivakumar the CM. Minutes later, another loyalist Zameer Ahmed Khan contradicted him, stating firmly: “The CM post is not vacant till 2028.”
These conflicting statements indicated possible uncertainty and internal friction even within the Siddaramaiah faction.
3. Shivakumar’s Cryptic Messaging
Shivakumar, known for strategic silence punctuated by dramatic statements, intensified the intrigue by posting: “Word power is world power. The biggest force in the world was to keep one’s word.”
Although he later denied writing it, the post triggered widespread speculation about whether the Congress had failed to honour its alleged promise to him.
4. The “Secret Deal” Revelation
Shivakumar hinted that only “5-6 leaders” in the Congress knew about a secret agreement regarding power-sharing. He insisted he hadn’t demanded the CM post, but his statement revived questions about the credibility of the supposed pact.
5. Strategic Moves & Silent Messages
In another late-night development, Shivakumar met minister Satish Jarkiholi, a Siddaramaiah loyalist. While sources claimed Jarkiholi promised he would “not abandon Siddaramaiah,” the meeting itself showcased Shivakumar’s relentless behind-the-scenes networking.
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Interestingly, despite Congress chief Kharge being in Bengaluru recently, Shivakumar did not meet him. He also reportedly hasn’t been able to reach Rahul Gandhi, raising questions about whether the high command is purposely keeping distance.
Reactions, Political Analysis & Inside Equations
The Karnataka CM tussle isn’t just a leadership clash—it reflects deep-rooted political strategies and caste dynamics. Karnataka’s political environment is highly sensitive to community equations, and both leaders represent substantial vote banks.
Siddaramaiah’s Strengths
- Considered a mass leader with large appeal among OBC, Muslim, SC, ST communities.
- Viewed by the Congress high command as a seasoned administrator.
- Credited with implementing major welfare guarantees that boosted Congress’ popularity.
- Seen as stable and experienced, capable of ensuring a full-term government.
Shivakumar’s Strengths
- Strong Vokkaliga leader with formidable influence in southern Karnataka.
- Known as the party’s crisis manager and key organizer.
- Credited for engineering Congress’ massive 2023 win.
- Has firm control over party machinery and organisational network.
The High Command Dilemma
The Congress leadership faces a tough choice:
- Changing CM risks destabilizing the government and upsetting OBC voter blocs.
- Not changing CM risks alienating Vokkaligas and undermining Shivakumar’s loyalty.
- Delaying a decision could repeat the mistakes of Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.
Political analysts believe the decision is no longer just about power-sharing but about preventing internal implosion ahead of 2028 state elections and 2029 Lok Sabha polls.
The 2.5-Year Formula Looms Large
The Congress had previously used the formula unsuccessfully in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, eventually losing both states. Karnataka is its biggest southern stronghold, and mishandling the transition could cost the party dearly.
Sources suggest a final decision is expected before December 1, adding urgency to the ongoing drama.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Karnataka Politics?
The Karnataka CM tussle has evolved into a defining moment for the Congress leadership. As the drama shifts to Delhi, the party must decide whether to honour a rumored agreement or prioritize long-term governance stability.
Siddaramaiah continues projecting confidence and experience. Shivakumar continues emphasizing commitment and loyalty. Both claim to stand by the high command’s decision, but political observers understand that whoever emerges victorious will reshape Karnataka’s political landscape for years.
For now, the suspense remains intact. The Congress high command has the final script in hand. Karnataka waits for the climax.
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By The News Update— Updated November 27, 2025
