Congress high command moves swiftly to settle Karnataka’s escalating leadership dispute
NEW DELHI
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday said the party’s top leadership — including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi — will collectively resolve the ongoing power tussle in Karnataka, which has intensified amid speculation of a possible change in leadership halfway through the government’s five-year term.
Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are expected to meet in the next 48 hours to discuss the matter. Following this, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar are likely to be summoned to the national capital, possibly on Friday, for further consultations. Sonia Gandhi is also expected to participate in the meeting.
The leadership debate has grown louder in recent weeks, fuelled by chatter about an alleged “power-sharing” pact between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in 2023. The Congress government reached its halfway mark on November 20, reviving speculation that a transition may be underway.
Siddaramaiah has publicly stated that the high command alone can “put a full stop to the confusion,” while Shivakumar has referred to a “secret deal between five to six of us” regarding the sharing of power — comments that have added intrigue to the unfolding political drama.
Reports suggest that the central leadership plans to make a decision on any change in leadership in Karnataka before the Parliament session begins on December 1.
The outcome of the upcoming meetings is expected to determine the next phase of Karnataka’s leadership and the trajectory of the Congress government in the state.
“Only the people there can say what the government is doing. But I would like to say that we will resolve such issues. Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and I will sit together and deliberate… We will provide the mediation required,” Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge
1. Karnataka PWD Minister Jarkiholi said CM Siddaramaiah urges Congress High Command to clarify the leadership change issue promptly.
2. Priyank Kharge said Congress high command will decide Karnataka power-sharing, addressing rumors, backward class issues, and political stability in the Delhi meeting today.
3. State HM Parameshwara declined commenting on Dalit CM speculation and cabinet expansion