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The leadership tussle within the Congress-led Karnataka government appears to be intensifying, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah saying he is ready to travel to Delhi if summoned by the party high command, and his deputy DK Shivakumar posting a cryptic message on social media declaring that “word power is world power.”
Since the Congress’s victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections in March 2023, speculation has persisted about a power-sharing pact between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar—reportedly approved by the central leadership—that would see a transfer of power after two and a half years.
These rumours have gained momentum in recent months. While Siddaramaiah has hinted at an upcoming cabinet reshuffle and insisted he will remain in charge, supporters of Shivakumar have been stepping up pressure for his elevation, both in Karnataka and in Delhi.
Amid this backdrop, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar posted an image on X with the caption: “Keeping one’s word is the greatest strength in the world!”
The image elaborated: “Word power is world power… The biggest force in the world is keeping one’s word. Whether a judge, president, or anyone else—including myself—everyone must walk the talk.”
Congress chief intervenes
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said he will convene a meeting in New Delhi with senior leaders—including Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Deputy CM Shivakumar—to address the escalating leadership issue in the state.
Kharge said the meeting aims to discuss the way forward and end the “confusion” surrounding the issue. Asked whether both the CM and his deputy would be called to Delhi, he responded, “We will certainly call them and discuss. After speaking to everyone, a decision will be made.”
Reacting to Kharge’s remarks, Shivakumar told reporters, “For us, the party is more important than anything. I am not claiming anything right now. We will all work together in the best interest of the party. The success of our party is more important than individual matters.”
