Kolkata: Tensions are rising within the Karnataka Congress as several MLAs have demanded a change in leadership. The demand comes just before senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala is set to meet state party legislators in Bengaluru.
Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain has claimed that over 100 MLAs want DK Shivakumar to replace Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister. He warned that if the leadership change doesn’t happen now, Congress may not retain power in the 2028 state elections.
“Time for Change”: MLAs Rally Behind Shivakumar
Iqbal Hussain, who is seen as close to Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, told NDTV,
“Over 100 MLAs are in favour of change. They want good governance and believe DK Shivakumar deserves an opportunity.”
He praised Shivakumar’s role in strengthening the party and said many MLAs are silently supporting him.
“If the change doesn’t happen now, it will hurt the party’s future,” Hussain said, adding that he would raise the issue during the meeting with Mr Surjewala.
High Command Caught in the Middle
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge earlier said only the party high command can decide on the Chief Minister’s post. Reacting to that, Hussain said,
“We respect the high command, but we must speak the truth.”
Randeep Surjewala downplayed the leadership crisis, calling his visit a routine “organisational exercise”. He said reports about a possible leadership change are a “figment of imagination.”
Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar Present a United Front
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking in Mysuru, dismissed all speculation.
“This government will remain as solid as a rock,” he said, using the Kannada word “bande”, which his supporters often use for him.
He appeared alongside DK Shivakumar and held his hand to show unity.
“We are on good terms,” Siddaramaiah said, brushing off questions about a rift.
Shivakumar did not make any direct comment on the leadership issue during the press interaction.
The Root of the Tension
The leadership tussle has its roots in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly election. DK Shivakumar was seen as a key architect of the Congress’s victory and was a top contender for the Chief Minister’s post. However, after much negotiation, the party high command selected Siddaramaiah for the role, with Shivakumar taking charge as Deputy Chief Minister and KPCC President.
There were unconfirmed reports of a rotational Chief Minister agreement, but it was never made official.
What’s Next?
The Congress leadership is under pressure to address growing dissatisfaction among its MLAs. With the 2028 elections in view, the party must act carefully to prevent a major internal rift.
For now, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are showing unity in public. But with over 100 MLAs reportedly pushing for a change, the Congress high command may soon face a tough decision.
