Power shift or party split? The truth behind the Siddaramaiah–Shivakumar showdown

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Congress is confronting one of its most visible internal rifts since returning to power, as a group of MLAs aligned with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have travelled to Delhi urging the party leadership to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Both leaders continue to publicly deny any demand for a change of guard, yet a string of political movements and late-night meetings has intensified speculation.

A major confrontation is unfolding within the Karnataka Congress, as around ten MLAs aligned with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have travelled to Delhi demanding a change in the Chief Minister. The group claims that a 2.5-year power-sharing pact was agreed internally when the government was formed in May 2023, under which Shivakumar would take over halfway through the term. With the halfway mark crossed in November 2025, loyalist legislators have increased pressure on the party high command to implement the alleged arrangement.

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar deny but tensions rise

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have publicly denied any current effort to replace the Chief Minister, insisting that all decisions rest with the party high command. However, late-night meetings, sudden travel plans and multiple delegations to Delhi indicate deepening internal friction. On Tuesday, Shivakumar held an unscheduled midnight meeting with PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, a senior leader considered close to Siddaramaiah, triggering further speculation about internal negotiations.

The alleged 2.5-year pact resurfaces

The political buzz centres on claims that senior Congress leaders had agreed to rotate the Chief Minister’s post between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. While publicly dismissed by several ministers, supporters of Shivakumar insist the pact was finalised in the presence of five to six senior leaders at the time of government formation. The demand for a leadership transition has intensified since no move was initiated around the expected date of November 20, when the government completed 30 months in office.

‘November revolution’ and growing factional assertions

The term “November revolution” has gained momentum in Karnataka’s political circles, referring to a possible leadership upheaval this month. Siddaramaiah has dismissed the term as media speculation and reiterated that the Congress was elected for a five-year mandate. Despite this, a new batch of Shivakumar-loyalist MLAs arrived in Delhi on November 24, reinforcing the perception of a mounting power struggle.

High command remains the final authority

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has stated that only the central leadership will decide on any leadership change in Karnataka, offering no immediate clarification on the escalating tensions. Siddaramaiah, too, has emphasised that he will abide by whatever decision the high command makes, including a potential transition. Party insiders note that Rahul Gandhi’s view is expected to play a decisive role, especially after reports suggested he was displeased with public denials surrounding the rotation agreement.

Internal communications signal further escalation

According to party sources, communication lines between key leaders have intensified. Priyank Kharge is reported to have spoken to both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar following concerns from the central leadership about public statements. Shivakumar is also said to be awaiting further communication from Rahul Gandhi after seeking an audience amid the growing unrest.

BJP targets Congress over governance concerns

The BJP has criticised the Congress for allowing internal conflicts to overshadow governance in Karnataka. Opposition leaders argue that administrative activity has come to a standstill as the ruling party focuses on internal power equations rather than development.

Decision expected by December 1

According to senior party sources, the Congress is expected to make a definitive call on Karnataka’s leadership by December 1, ahead of the Parliament session. While no official confirmation has been issued, insiders suggest that if a change is approved, Shivakumar is the only contender being considered to succeed Siddaramaiah. Until an announcement is made, the political suspense continues to grip the state.