Karnataka CM Change Climax: Mallikarjun Kharge made big statement

Karnataka CM Change: The discussion and potential change of the Karnataka Chief Minister is currently the most intense political issue in the state, driven by the alleged 2.5-year power-sharing pact between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Karnataka CM Change Climax: Mallikarjun Kharge made big statement.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has for the first time openly acknowledged the internal conflict, stating that the “high command” (himself, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi) will sit together to deliberate and “give the medicine when required” to resolve the issue.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are expected to be summoned to Delhi soon for a crucial meeting with the high command to settle the matter. Sources suggest this meeting could potentially happen around November 29.

High Command Expected to take the final decision is anticipated to be taken before the Winter Session of Parliament begins on December 1st.

Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar has strongly hinted that a secret power-sharing deal was reached among “five or six” senior leaders in May 2023, which would involve him taking over the CM post after Siddaramaiah completed half of the five-year term (which recently passed in November). He has stated, “The biggest force in the world is to keep one’s word.”

CM Siddaramaiah has asked the high command to “put a full stop to this confusion” quickly. While his aides deny any formal power-sharing agreement, he has shifted from asserting he will complete the full term to saying he will abide by the high command’s decision.

Pressure from MLAs: Several batches of MLAs loyal to D.K. Shivakumar have traveled to Delhi to meet the central leadership, actively pushing for his elevation to the Chief Minister position.

Political Implications:

Shivakumar’s Leverage: D.K. Shivakumar’s strength lies in his role as the State Congress President (KPCC Chief) and his organizational/election management skills.

Siddaramaiah’s Leverage: Siddaramaiah is considered a mass leader with strong support from the SC, ST, Muslim, and a large section of OBC voters.

The Cabinet Reshuffle Factor: Party sources suggest that if the high command approves a Cabinet reshuffle (a move Siddaramaiah is pushing for), it would be a tacit signal that Siddaramaiah will complete the full five-year term, effectively shelving the leadership change.

The political spotlight is now entirely on the Congress high command to make a decisive and clear announcement.

Also Read: Swamiji voices support for DK Shivakumar to become chief minister