In Karnataka’s political landscape, the rivalry between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has been a focal point since the Congress’s victory in the 2023 Assembly elections. The initial compromise positioned Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister, with Shivakumar serving as both Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President. Speculation about a mid-term power transfer has persisted, though no official confirmation has emerged. Siddaramaiah and his supporters have consistently denied any such arrangement, while Shivakumar’s camp maintains that an understanding exists. This ongoing tension has led to public declarations from ministers aligned with Siddaramaiah, asserting that “the Chief Minister’s chair is not vacant,” reflecting the party’s current stance.
The differing political backgrounds, leadership styles, ambitions, and ideological approaches of the two leaders contribute to the friction. Siddaramaiah boasts a mass following, particularly among minorities, backward classes, and Dalits, while Shivakumar is recognized for his organizational skills and influence within the dominant Vokkaliga community. Despite attempts to present a united front, their supporters have openly expressed their differences. For instance, Shivakumar’s recent proposal to rename Ramanagara district as Bengaluru South was met with disapproval from Siddaramaiah, who noted that he had not been consulted on the matter.
The internal power struggle has also led to calls for a more balanced distribution of authority. Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna, aligned with Siddaramaiah, proposed appointing three additional Deputy Chief Ministers to ensure caste representation ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This move is perceived as an attempt to counterbalance Shivakumar’s influence, especially concerning decisions related to Bengaluru’s development.
As the Congress navigates these internal dynamics, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is closely monitoring the situation. The BJP has previously orchestrated defections in Karnataka and may be poised to exploit any instability within the Congress ranks. In response, Congress leaders have urged restraint among their members, emphasizing the importance of unity as the party prepares for the upcoming general elections.
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The unfolding developments in Karnataka’s political arena underscore the delicate balance of power within the state’s ruling party. The actions and decisions of both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the state’s political future.
