The Congress party in Karnataka is gearing up for a leadership change, with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar poised to take over as Chief Minister. This move is expected to resolve the internal power struggle that has persisted within the ruling party for the past six months. The transition involves replacing Siddaramaiah, a prominent figure representing the AHINDA vote bank, which comprises minorities, backward classes, and Dalits.
Senior ministers, including G. Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, and K.H. Muniyappa, have expressed their support for the decision made by the Congress high command. Muniyappa, a veteran Lok Sabha MP, clarified that he would not push for a Dalit Chief Minister if leadership changes occur. The reported strategy of Siddaramaiah’s camp to demand a Dalit Chief Minister in case of a transition seems to have been effectively managed by the Congress leadership.
Sources suggest that Siddaramaiah is likely to step down following a breakfast meeting and submit his resignation to the Governor. Celebrations have already begun at Shivakumar’s residence in Bengaluru, with supporters expressing confidence in his upcoming role as Chief Minister. The leadership change is seen as part of a broader strategy to prepare the Congress for the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections.
A smooth transition of power is being facilitated by senior Congress leaders, urging Siddaramaiah to honor the party’s decision. The Congress is also considering appointing Deputy Chief Ministers from various communities to ensure broader social representation. The party’s move to project Shivakumar as the new face aims to counter anti-incumbency and retain its core support base while attracting a significant share of Vokkaliga votes.
The future stability of the Congress government may hinge on Siddaramaiah’s response to the leadership transition, as he reportedly aims to complete a full term. Concerns linger about potential ongoing rivalry between the Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar factions even after the transition. The BJP has seized the opportunity to criticize the Congress, hinting at the possibility of early Assembly elections in Karnataka.
