In an attempt to quell swirling rumours and simmering unrest within the ruling party in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday publicly asserted that there were no differences between him and his deputy, DK Shivakumar, and that any decision about the top post will be taken only by the party’s high command.
A Breakfast That Sent a Message
The show of unity came after a private breakfast meeting between the two leaders at Shivakumar’s residence. Emerging together before reporters, Siddaramaiah said, “DK Shivakumar and I are united. We are running the government. In the future also, we will run the government unitedly…”
When pressed about when Shivakumar might succeed him as Chief Minister — a topic that has dominated political chatter in Karnataka for weeks — Siddaramaiah responded: “When the High Command says…” This non-committal answer effectively sidesteps giving a timeline, and places the ball squarely in the hands of the national party leadership.
What Prompted The Speculation
The speculation over a possible leadership change has roots in earlier reports of a tacit power-sharing agreement. Post their victory in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, it was widely believed that the two leaders had settled on a rotational Chief Minister formula — with Siddaramaiah completing roughly half the term, followed by Shivakumar.
However, after about two years in office, voices inside and outside the party began to push for activation of that formula. Support for Shivakumar reportedly grew among several legislators, triggering new power-tussle rumours.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shivakumar has been maintaining a low-key yet visible presence: while he denied making any overt moves for the top job recently — stating he is “not in a hurry for anything” — his critics interpret his silence and occasional cryptic statements as subtle pressure on party leadership.
Party’s Position: High Command Will Decide
Both leaders have repeatedly emphasised that any transition will be dictated only by the national leadership of their party. In recent days, party insiders have reportedly stated that a final call on CM-post change could come either before the Legislature session slated to begin on December 8, or later — but the sources remain inconclusive.
Siddaramaiah reiterated that while MLAs have the freedom to express opinions, the ultimate decision lies with the “High Command.” Shivakumar — meanwhile — has dovetailed with this line, saying he will abide by whatever decision comes, and also refusing to claim any entitlement to the CM post publicly.
What It Means for Governance & Internal Stability
The calm demeanour displayed by both leaders and the emphasis on “unity” is likely meant to project stability — especially as Karnataka gears up for the coming legislative session. With opposition parties watching internal Congress developments closely, any sign of disarray could have political fallout.
By deferring the decision to the national leadership, the state government appears to be signalling that despite rumours, there is no open conflict — at least not yet. This hold-on-decision approach may help avoid factional skirmishes and prevent destabilising defections from the ruling party.
That said, the ambiguity leaves political watchers speculating about whether this unity is genuine or just political optics. If the “rotational CM formula” does indeed exist on paper, many believe the next few weeks could be crucial — especially with the winter session around the corner.
Until Then — No Change, No Chaos
For now, Karnataka continues under Siddaramaiah’s leadership, with Shivakumar firmly as his deputy. Until the “High Command says”, both leaders seem committed to presenting a united front.
Siddaramaiah’s statement and the joint breakfast picture may have dampened immediate speculation — but the underlying question remains: will Shivakumar get the top post, and if yes — when? Until the national party gives its verdict, the political theatre in Bengaluru stays in suspense.
