Karnataka Congress Leadership Dispute Reaches Critical Juncture

The leadership struggle within Karnataka's Congress government is escalating as Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's supporters demand his promotion to chief minister. A recent meeting in Bengaluru, attended by around 40 legislators, focused on this contentious issue, with concerns raised about the party's future if the leadership conflict remains unresolved. As the assembly's budget session approaches, the implications of this power struggle could significantly impact the party's standing in upcoming elections. The backdrop of this dispute includes unconfirmed reports of a power-sharing agreement between Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, adding further complexity to the situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 27, 2026, 13:36 IST

Political Maneuvering in Bengaluru

The ongoing leadership conflict within Karnataka's ruling Congress government appears to be at a pivotal point. Loyalists of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have staged a show of strength at a private hotel in Bengaluru, urging the party leadership to facilitate Shivakumar's ascension to the chief ministerial position.

Strategic Meeting with 40 Legislators

A meeting organized by MLA H.C. Balakrishna has stirred political circles. According to Congress insiders, around 40 like-minded legislators attended this gathering. Officially, it was described as a celebration for Balakrishna's birthday, but discussions were primarily focused on leadership change.

On Thursday night, approximately 40 legislators convened at the hotel, deciding to advocate for Shivakumar's elevation to the chief minister role. Balakrishna, a loyalist of Shivakumar, informed reporters that his birthday is on Saturday. 'I won't be in Bengaluru from Friday morning, so I invited like-minded individuals to meet today,' he stated.

Concerns Over Leadership Issues

When asked about the discussions, Balakrishna expressed that if the party continues in its current state, it could lead to difficulties in the future. He emphasized the need for the top leadership to resolve the leadership dispute, stating, 'We have decided to urge them to address this issue.'

Regarding a potential trip to Delhi, Balakrishna clarified that it was not about going to the national capital. He mentioned that the party leadership is aware of the ongoing events in Karnataka.

He noted that Congress legislators face constant questions about leadership changes when they visit their constituencies, making them uncomfortable. 'This is the topic of discussion in our areas, and we feel uneasy about it. We should request the top leadership to put an end to this.'

Implications for Future Elections

Balakrishna indicated that the ongoing situation could impact the party's standing in the 2028 assembly elections. Regarding the demand for a change in the Karnataka Congress presidency, he stated that if the top leadership desires, changes can be made. Shivakumar has held this position for the past decade.

'We only want a final decision. Whether the president changes or not is secondary. Our demand is to finalize the party's position here,' he asserted.

When asked if he was advocating for a change in the chief minister, Balakrishna replied, 'The top leadership has stated that a decision will be made. Whether it involves changing the president or the chief minister is their prerogative. However, a decision must be made to eliminate confusion.'

This meeting took place just a week before the Karnataka assembly's budget session, which begins on March 6. Some other legislators expressed their desire for Shivakumar to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Background of the Power Struggle

The power struggle in the state intensified in November 2025, when the Congress government completed its two-and-a-half-year term. At the time of Congress's rise to power, there were reports of a power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, where Siddaramaiah would serve as chief minister for the first two and a half years, followed by Shivakumar. However, this was never officially confirmed.

Shivakumar has periodically hinted that such an agreement existed, known only to a few, while Siddaramaiah maintains that he will complete a full five-year term.