Leadership buzz intensifies as D K Shivakumar meets Congress high command in Delhi

Bengaluru: Fresh political speculation has gripped Karnataka after Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar held a series of crucial meetings with the Congress high command in New Delhi, reviving debate over a possible power-sharing arrangement in the state.

Shivakumar met AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and general secretary (organisation) K. C. Venugopal before calling on senior leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Though officially the meetings were linked to organisational strategy, sources said the Karnataka leadership question figured prominently in the discussions.

Shivakumar participated in a strategy session at Sonia Gandhi’s residence to plan for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections. However, party insiders revealed that he used the opportunity to flag concerns over the unresolved understanding on sharing of power in Karnataka.

Sources indicated that Shivakumar highlighted his loyalty to the party during challenging times, including when he was jailed in Tihar in connection with financial investigations. He reportedly reminded the leadership of assurances extended to him during that period and sought clarity on their implementation.

During the interaction, Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have assured Shivakumar that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would be invited to Delhi soon for discussions. “We will speak to both leaders and address the matter in a structured manner,” a senior functionary quoted Rahul as saying.

Sonia Gandhi is said to have counselled patience, stressing that any decision would be taken after assessing the political climate in the state. “The party will take the right decision at the appropriate time,” sources quoted her as telling Shivakumar.

The renewed activity in Delhi comes amid persistent speculation within Congress circles over a mid-term leadership adjustment in Karnataka. While there has been no official confirmation of any change, Shivakumar’s back-to-back meetings with the top brass have strengthened perceptions that the issue is under active consideration.

With Parliament’s Budget Session entering its next phase and the Karnataka Budget Session expected shortly, party observers believe the high command may initiate consultations soon to prevent internal friction from escalating.

Shivakumar’s camp remains optimistic that clarity will emerge in the coming weeks, even as the state leadership maintains public restraint on the issue.

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