Tensions flare in Karnataka’s Congress camp as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah positions himself firmly behind the party’s central leadership to settle the protracted leadership imbroglio. Speaking in Bengaluru on Tuesday, he asserted that the high command’s ruling will be the ultimate word.
The remarks target Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s recent transparency claims on joint discussions with top brass present. Opting for restraint, Siddaramaiah said, ‘I’ll skip commenting on his views. High command decides, period. Query him on his statements—I’m unaware and ready to comply.’
Delhi summons speculation was rebuffed: ‘Budget work pins me here; no trip without an official call.’
On Shivakumar missing a budget strategy session, details emerged of a permission letter for a Delhi huddle on Assam polls.
Regarding the Supreme Court’s no-nonsense stance on electoral roll updates, the CM adopted a measured tone: ‘Need to grasp the full context before any statement.’
Shivakumar’s prior harmony pitch—’Sticking to our word’—came with a plea for discretion on leadership matters, interpreted as countering Yathindra’s affirmation of his father’s full tenure, endorsed by Delhi.
Karnataka’s political theater reflects broader Congress challenges in maintaining cohesion. As fiscal planning advances, the high command’s role becomes pivotal. Will it reinforce Siddaramaiah’s position, empower Shivakumar, or forge a new alliance? The outcome could redefine the state’s governance trajectory and signal national strategies.