Political uncertainty in Karnataka intensified on Wednesday as both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar made cryptic, vague remarks instead of directly addressing questions on the much-speculated power transfer formula within the ruling Congress.
Shivakumar, whose comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate, stirred curiosity after declaring that the details of the supposed transition were known only to a select few. “This is a secret among 5-6 people and I won't disclose it,” he said, refusing to elaborate. He also reiterated his respect for the Chief Minister, saying Siddaramaiah remains “an asset to the party”.
The day began with unexpected political movement when Shivakumar visited AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in Sadashivanagar before accompanying him to the airport. The brief car ride, happening just as Kharge was leaving for Delhi, sparked speculation as the two leaders did not meet during Kharge’s previous three days in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has repeatedly asserted that he would serve a full five-year term, pushed the responsibility back to the party’s national leadership. Responding to questions over cabinet reshuffle and leadership changes, he said the matter was entirely in the hands of the Congress high command. He stressed that the party leadership must intervene to clear the prevailing confusion.
At his home turf in Kanakapura, Shivakumar attempted to dispel rumours of internal rifts. “I believe in my conscience and I work accordingly. We exist if party and party workers are there,” he remarked, denying any intention to “weaken or embarrass” the party. When asked whether Kharge’s Delhi visit was linked to discussions with Rahul Gandhi on power sharing, he maintained, “I didn't know about it.”
Shivakumar also underlined collective responsibility ahead of future elections. “CM is a senior leader and he is an asset to the party. He has governed for seven and half years and he has said that he would present the next budget as well. I am happy to hear that… All of us have to work collectively towards the 2028 and 2029 elections,” he added.
As these cryptic remarks circulated, confusion spread within the Congress ranks. Ministers and MLAs visited both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar throughout the day seeking clarity. Among them was Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, a long-time Siddaramaiah loyalist, who nonetheless met Shivakumar despite previously asserting that Siddaramaiah would remain Chief Minister until 2028.
