Tensions Rise in Karnataka Congress Over Chief Minister Position

Tensions within the Karnataka Congress have intensified as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar intervenes to prevent legislators from lobbying for his appointment as Chief Minister. Amidst ongoing power struggles with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar emphasizes the need for party discipline and leaves the decision to the high command. This situation highlights the internal conflicts and strategies at play within the party, as both factions vie for control. With claims of significant legislative support and discussions of a potential Dalit CM, the political landscape in Karnataka remains charged. Stay tuned for further developments on this unfolding story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 11:24 IST

Current News:

In Karnataka, internal strife within the Congress party regarding the chief ministerial position has reached a boiling point. Sources indicate that several Congress legislators were preparing to approach the Delhi high command to advocate for Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to replace Siddaramaiah as CM.

However, at the last moment, Shivakumar intervened and urged these legislators not to proceed to Delhi in his name. He emphasized that discussions on this matter had already taken place with the party leadership and called for maintaining discipline within the party.

Detailed Report:

The tension between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar over the CM position has escalated within the Karnataka Congress government. Recently, in the last week of February 2026, supporters of Shivakumar among the legislators were gearing up to lobby the Congress high command in Delhi to push for Shivakumar's appointment as chief minister.

This situation arose following a meeting of approximately 30-40 Shivakumar supporters at a private hotel in Bengaluru, disguised as a birthday celebration for MLA HC Balakrishna. The meeting focused on strategies for a power shift and lobbying in Delhi.

However, just before the planned trip, Shivakumar made a public statement, saying:

“There is no need to go to Delhi in my name.”

“I urge everyone not to lobby for me in Delhi.”

“If anyone has personal requests or desires for cabinet positions, they may go, but not for me.”

“This is not about showing strength. Legislators travel to Delhi, go abroad, and attend dinner parties – these are personal matters, not related to the party.”

Shivakumar stressed the importance of maintaining party discipline and leaving the decision to the high command. He also mentioned that he keeps the high command informed as party president but does not wish for any uncontrolled actions.

This move reflects Shivakumar's strategy to ensure that the decision regarding the chief ministership is made by the high command without any pressure or controversy from his supporters.

Background:

There has been ongoing discussion within Congress about a 50-50 formula (Siddaramaiah for 2.5 years, followed by Shivakumar), but Siddaramaiah aims to serve the full term.

Supporters of Shivakumar claim to have the backing of 80-90 legislators.

Recently, Shivakumar met with Sonia Gandhi in Delhi, along with other developments.

The Siddaramaiah camp is now advocating for a Dalit CM to counter Shivakumar's influence.