The leadership tussle within the Karnataka Congress intensified on Thursday after Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dropped a cryptic social-media post emphasising the importance of “keeping one’s word”. The message, posted at a time when the party’s high command is weighing the question of a possible change in chief ministership, has reignited speculation about Shivakumar’s push for the top post — a claim rooted in an alleged power-sharing pact from 2023.
Shivakumar’s cryptic post triggers political buzz
Shivakumar’s post read: “Word power is world power… the biggest force in the world is to keep one’s word. Be it a judge, president or anyone else including myself… everyone has to walk the talk.” He also added that “those standing at the back don’t know the value of a chair”, a line widely interpreted as a pointed remark aimed at party colleagues resisting a leadership transition.
While the Deputy CM did not name anyone, leaders within the Congress believe the timing was deliberate, given the ongoing discussions in Delhi over whether Siddaramaiah should continue as Chief Minister for the full term.
Siddaramaiah says he will go to Delhi if called
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, responding separately to media queries, maintained that he would travel to Delhi if the party high command summoned him. However, he gave no indication of stepping down or preparing for a handover, signalling that he expects to retain the post unless instructed otherwise.
His camp insists that the government remains stable and that all talk of leadership change is “media speculation”, even as pressure mounts from Shivakumar loyalists.
Power-sharing pact at the centre of the storm
The feud traces back to 2023, when reports suggested a tacit understanding that Shivakumar would take over the CM’s post midway through the five-year term. Though the Congress leadership has never publicly confirmed such a deal, Shivakumar and his supporters have repeatedly hinted at being assured the position.
With the mid-term mark approaching, his recent post is seen as a reminder to the party to honour what he believes was promised.
High command steps in to ease tensions
The Congress high command is expected to meet senior Karnataka leaders in Delhi to resolve the dispute. Party insiders say the leadership is concerned about the growing public messaging from both camps, which risks stirring instability in a state considered politically crucial.
Amid rising factional posturing, party president Mallikarjun Kharge is reportedly seeking a consensus that safeguards governance while managing competing ambitions.
Growing unease within the party
While some MLAs publicly back Siddaramaiah, others have quietly expressed support for Shivakumar, saying he played a key role in bringing the party to power. The situation has led to heightened uncertainty, with both camps watching Delhi closely for the final word.
Conclusion
As the leadership question tightens its grip over the Karnataka Congress, Shivakumar’s cryptic message has sharpened political equations yet again. Whether it results in a negotiated transition or deeper friction depends on how swiftly the high command steps in — and how its decision balances power, promises and perceptions.