Karnataka Deputy CM Cancels Davos Trip Amid Political Meetings

D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, has canceled his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, due to important political meetings in New Delhi and Bengaluru. His office stated that he is engaged in discussions regarding the Assam Assembly elections and leading a campaign against the central government on MGNREGA issues. This decision has raised questions about the stability of the current leadership within the Congress party, especially as the government approaches a critical halfway mark in its term. Speculations have intensified following a recent meeting involving key party leaders, hinting at potential shifts in power dynamics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 17:05 IST

Cancellation of Davos Trip

D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, has called off his planned visit to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, citing official commitments in New Delhi and Bengaluru.

His office released a statement on Saturday indicating that several meetings with central Congress officials regarding the Assam Assembly elections are scheduled, along with his leadership role in a campaign against the central government concerning the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This has led to a special five-day session of the Karnataka Assembly set to begin on January 22.

Current Engagements

According to his itinerary, Shivakumar was in Delhi for a preparatory meeting related to the Assam Assembly elections and plans to travel to Bidar in northern Karnataka later today. He will also attend the funeral of former minister Bhimanna Khandre, who passed away last night at the age of 102.

Following this, Shivakumar will head to New Delhi via Hyderabad.

Political Implications

His decision to skip the Davos summit, which starts on January 18, has fueled speculation regarding the stability of the current leadership, especially in light of his return to Delhi.

This development comes against the backdrop of a brief discussion between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Shivakumar on Tuesday evening, leading to rumors that the party's high command may focus on the ongoing power struggle.

Tensions regarding leadership within the ruling party have intensified as the Karnataka Congress government approaches the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20. The alleged power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar at the time of government formation in 2023 has further fueled these speculations.