Leadership Tensions Rise in Karnataka as Siddaramaiah Seeks Clarity from Rahul Gandhi

In Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reached out to Rahul Gandhi for clarification amidst rising rumors of a leadership change within the Congress party. The ongoing power struggle, believed to stem from a supposed agreement between Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar, has led to tensions within the party. As Siddaramaiah seeks to expand his cabinet, he emphasizes the need for clarity from the party's high command. Despite denials of discord from both leaders, the BJP has criticized the Congress for being preoccupied with internal conflicts rather than governance. This situation raises questions about the future leadership dynamics in Karnataka.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 10:58 IST

Political Unrest in Karnataka

Amidst speculations of a leadership shift in Karnataka's political landscape, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reportedly sought clarification from Rahul Gandhi. According to a report from a prominent news media outlet, Siddaramaiah expressed concerns over the ongoing "confusion" regarding power dynamics within the state. He indicated a desire to expand his cabinet and wishes to meet with Gandhi amidst rumors of a leadership change.

Siddaramaiah's Request to Rahul Gandhi

State of Confusion: Siddaramaiah has communicated to Rahul Gandhi that there is persistent confusion surrounding the power struggle in the state. He has urged the party's high command to clarify the situation regarding this matter.

Desire for a Meeting: Sources suggest that Siddaramaiah is keen on expanding his cabinet and has requested a meeting with Gandhi to discuss this amidst the swirling rumors of leadership changes.

Root Cause of the Controversy

The ongoing tug-of-war within the Karnataka Congress is believed to stem from a supposed 'two-and-a-half-year' formula:

Agreement: It is rumored that an agreement was made between Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar to share the chief ministerial position after the 2023 elections.

Tenure: The government is expected to complete half of its term (2.5 years) by November 2025, leading Shivakumar's supporters to pressure for his elevation to the chief minister's role.

Siddaramaiah's Stance: The Siddaramaiah faction claims that no formal agreement exists and that they intend to complete a full five-year term.

Party Leadership's Response

Last month, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to quell rumors of leadership disputes, asserting that there is no confusion at the party's high command level. He emphasized that internal issues should be resolved by the state leadership.

Kharge also warned party leaders against taking personal credit for the Congress's electoral success in Karnataka, stressing that the organization has been built collectively by its workers over decades.

Denial of Differences

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have consistently denied reports of discord. Siddaramaiah has stated that he enjoys the confidence of the party leadership and intends to serve his full term, dismissing claims of any rotational chief minister arrangement.

Shivakumar has also rejected the notion of a rift, labeling such discussions as media speculation and opposition propaganda. He previously remarked, "Aren't CM and I working together like brothers? I have no disagreements with any Congress leader," asserting that the party leadership will make decisions at the appropriate time.

Understanding the Leadership Struggle

The discussions revolve around an alleged internal agreement that Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar would share the chief minister's role: two-and-a-half years each. Siddaramaiah took office on May 20, 2023, and expectations for a leadership change arose around November 20 of the previous year as the government reached the halfway mark of its term. When no changes occurred, loyalists of Shivakumar escalated their demands and traveled to Delhi.

The Congress party has denied any such agreement regarding power-sharing and has reiterated that Siddaramaiah will complete a full five-year term. In response to the legislators' trip to Delhi amid tensions, Shivakumar stated that factionalism is not in their nature and reiterated that Siddaramaiah will fulfill his term as chief minister.

The Deputy Chief Minister remarked, "All 140 legislators are mine. Factionalism is not in my blood. The Chief Minister and I have repeatedly stated that we will adhere to the high command's directives." He also noted that it is natural for legislators to meet with the Congress leadership to lobby for positions before any cabinet reshuffle.

Criticism from Opposition

The BJP has repeatedly targeted the Karnataka Congress leadership, claiming that Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are embroiled in daily power struggles for the chief minister's position rather than focusing on governance.