Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy (JD(S)) said the Karnataka Congress remains deeply divided despite claims that its internal leadership disputes are resolved.
The friction between the JD(S) leader and Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (Congress) highlights a growing political battle over land rights and governance in the state. This conflict centers on allegations of corruption and land grabs that could influence future electoral stability.
Kumaraswamy said the Congress party is "200% a divided house" [1]. He said that the internal split within the party will become evident following the next cabinet expansion [1]. While he acknowledged that Shivakumar is capable, the Union Minister focused his criticism on the Chief Minister's leadership and alleged ties to the land mafia [1], [2].
The dispute intensified on June 17, 2026, regarding the Bidadi township project [3]. Kumaraswamy positioned himself alongside farmers who oppose the project, alleging that the development involves land grabs by Shivakumar [3]. These accusations have manifested physically on the Mysuru-Bengaluru highway, where posters alleging land-mafia links have appeared [2].
Shivakumar responded to the accusations by challenging the Union Minister to a public debate. He said he accepts the challenge for a public debate on the Bidadi project [2].
Kumaraswamy continues to argue that the Congress leadership is unstable. He said the party's internal contradictions will surface as portfolios are redistributed in the upcoming cabinet shuffle [1].
“"The Congress is 200% a divided house."”
The public rift between Kumaraswamy and Shivakumar reflects a strategic attempt by the JD(S) to align with agrarian discontent in Karnataka. By linking the Chief Minister to 'land-mafia' allegations and predicting a collapse of Congress unity during cabinet expansions, Kumaraswamy is attempting to undermine the current administration's legitimacy ahead of future political shifts.
