Mon Jan 12 19:41:12 UTC 2026: # Congress Leadership Tussle in Karnataka Escalates, High Command Steps In
The Story:
A leadership struggle between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has prompted intervention from the Congress high command. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that both leaders will be summoned to Delhi for discussions “whenever necessary” to address the ongoing conflict. This comes amidst Shivakumar’s push for elevation based on a power-sharing agreement and Siddaramaiah’s efforts to consolidate his position through a Cabinet reshuffle.
Key Points:
- Mallikarjun Kharge acknowledged the leadership issue in Karnataka and hinted that it was a local creation.
- D.K. Shivakumar met with Kharge to discuss political developments in Karnataka.
- Shivakumar is reportedly pushing for elevation based on a prior agreement for rotation of power.
- Siddaramaiah is allegedly seeking a Cabinet reshuffle to strengthen his position.
- Speculation suggests Shivakumar and his supporters might challenge Siddaramaiah after the Sankranti festival.
- Shivakumar is scheduled to visit Delhi on January 16, 2026, for a meeting regarding the upcoming Assam elections, where he serves as a senior observer.
Key Takeaways:
- The Congress party is facing internal conflict within its Karnataka leadership.
- The high command is actively monitoring the situation and prepared to intervene.
- The timing of Shivakumar’s Delhi visit adds complexity to the political dynamic.
- The Assam elections provide Shivakumar with a separate area of responsibility, potentially diverting his attention from the Karnataka situation.
- The stability of the Karnataka government hinges on the resolution of this leadership dispute.
First Piper 