Karnataka Congress Leaders Summoned to Delhi Amid Leadership Dispute

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have been summoned to Delhi by the Congress high command to resolve a leadership dispute.

The intervention comes as internal friction threatens the stability of the state government, with reports suggesting a potential shift in the top leadership roles. Because the party has held power in Karnataka since 2023 ^[1], any change in the chief minister's office could reshape the state's administrative direction and political alliances.

Senior party figures, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi, are involved in the discussions. The summons to Delhi occurred on Monday, May 25 ^[2], following a period of visible tension between the two top leaders. Sources said the high command is seeking to end a power tussle that has permeated the state cabinet.

Reports regarding the outcome of these meetings vary. Some sources said that Siddaramaiah is expected to resign this week ^[3] to make way for DK Shivakumar to take over as chief minister. Other reports suggest more uncertainty, noting that a resignation may not be imminent and that the party is still weighing various options for the state's leadership.

Beyond the chief minister's seat, the discussions reportedly involve a potential move regarding a Rajya Sabha seat, and a broader reshuffle of the state cabinet. The high command is attempting to balance the competing interests of the two factions to ensure party unity ahead of future electoral challenges.

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have maintained a complex working relationship since the party's victory in 2023 ^[1]. The current crisis represents the most significant challenge to their partnership since the government was formed, necessitating direct intervention from the national leadership in Delhi.