Siddaramaiah vs Shivakumar show shifts to Delhi, all eyes on key meet with Rahul

A fresh round of political drama is unfolding in Delhi as the rivalry between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy D.K. Shivakumar intensifies. The two leaders are in the capital to meet Rahul Gandhi. Their meeting could determine the power equation in the state.

Power Tussle Between Congress Titans

Since May 2023, when Congress returned to power in Karnataka, the relationship between the two leaders has remained tense. Siddaramaiah became Chief Minister, while Shivakumar settled for the Deputy CM role despite his ambition. Supporters of Shivakumar have pushed for a rotational power-sharing model. They claim he was promised the top job after 2.5 years, which would be in November 2025.

Siddaramaiah, however, has publicly dismissed any such agreement. He insists he will complete his five-year term. This disagreement has fueled the latest round of political maneuvering.

Shift to Delhi: The Real Agenda

Both leaders arrived in Delhi this week under the guise of official work. Siddaramaiah met several Union ministers and requested an appointment with Rahul Gandhi. Shivakumar, too, reached out to Rahul and later met Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at Sonia Gandhi’s residence.

Though their visits were labeled as administrative, Congress insiders reveal the real goal. Both are seeking high-command support as the leadership battle heats up. Shivakumar’s supporters believe the time for change is near. Siddaramaiah wants to hold on.

Dissatisfaction Among Lawmakers

Adding pressure to the situation is growing unrest within the Congress legislature party. Several MLAs have voiced concerns about corruption and inaccessibility. Randeep Singh Surjewala, the party’s Karnataka in-charge, has held one-on-one meetings with lawmakers to gather feedback.

Many legislators feel the government’s image is slipping. Some believe a mid-term change in leadership could improve public perception. Others argue that such a move may destabilize the administration.

Why Rahul Gandhi Matters Now

Rahul Gandhi’s role is critical. His response to the ongoing crisis could shape not only Karnataka’s future but also the Congress party’s internal structure. If he backs a rotational Chief Minister system, it may set a precedent in other states. If he supports Siddaramaiah’s full term, it signals that performance and experience matter more than internal quotas.

So far, Rahul has avoided public comments on the matter. But party sources say he will meet both leaders this week. His decision will carry long-term consequences.

High Stakes for the Congress

The Congress party is looking to build on its recent Lok Sabha performance. Any rift in Karnataka, one of its strongest states, could hurt those plans. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar command strong regional bases. Siddaramaiah has support from backward communities, while Shivakumar enjoys a solid Vokkaliga vote bank.

A wrong move could alienate one group and fracture the party’s support. Congress cannot afford that, especially with key state elections coming up in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand.

What Comes Next?

The next few days will be crucial. If Rahul Gandhi successfully mediates and convinces both leaders to work together, Congress may avoid a crisis. If either leader feels betrayed, the consequences could be serious. That includes the risk of defections or even a split in the state government.

Siddaramaiah wants to finish his full term. Shivakumar wants his promised turn. The Congress high command now holds the key.