On November 22, 2025, Karnataka’s political landscape witnessed intensified discussions and strategic maneuvering as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru to address the ongoing leadership impasse within the state Congress leadership. The meeting, held at Kharge’s residence, centered on resolving the contentious power-sharing agreement that was purportedly established during the formation of the state government in May 2023 but has since become a source of discord between key leaders.
Siddaramaiah arrived alone for the crucial discussion, signaling both the gravity and sensitivity of the matter. The core issue revolves around a proposed Cabinet reshuffle, which Siddaramaiah is reportedly seeking to implement with the high command’s approval. However, this move has met staunch opposition from Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief D.K. Shivakumar, who insists on the transfer of power to himself as per the informal agreement. This standoff has left the party’s leadership at a crossroads, struggling to balance competing demands within its ranks.
Although the outcome of the meeting between Siddaramaiah and Kharge remained unclear at the time of reporting, party insiders suggest that Kharge assured the Chief Minister that any decision regarding the Cabinet reshuffle or potential transfer of power would only be finalized after consultations with the “first family” of the Congress—Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Priyank Gandhi. This indicates that the high command is taking a cautious, inclusive approach to resolving the conflict, mindful of the delicate political equilibrium in Karnataka.
The tension between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar has been brewing for some time. Siddaramaiah’s move to seek approval for reshuffling the Cabinet is viewed by Shivakumar as a breach of the power-sharing pact, escalating the rivalry. The mutual unwillingness to concede has led to a political deadlock, with Siddaramaiah firmly reiterating his intent to retain the Chief Minister post. In response, Shivakumar’s pointed remark wishing Siddaramaiah “all the best” has only intensified the public perception of a brewing leadership crisis.
Prior to his meeting with Kharge, Siddaramaiah convened a gathering of loyal ministers, including K.J. George, B.Z. Zameer Ahmed, Byrathi Suresh, Satish Jarkiholi, and Eshwar Khandre, at his residence. This assembly underscores Siddaramaiah’s efforts to consolidate support within the party and fortify his position amid the ongoing power tussle. Meanwhile, Shivakumar was scheduled to meet Kharge the following day, suggesting that the high command is attempting to engage both leaders directly to broker a compromise.
The party’s rank and file appear increasingly restless as the leadership struggle unfolds. MLAs aligned with both factions have called for swift intervention by the Congress high command to break the deadlock. Sharat Bachhe Gowda, MLA and chairman of KEONICS, conveyed readiness to abide by the high command’s decision upon his return to Bengaluru from Delhi, reflecting a broader sentiment within the party ranks for a resolution that restores stability.
KPCC working president Tanvir Sait criticized the high command for its delayed clarity on the power-sharing arrangement, highlighting that confusion over whether an agreement was ever concretely reached has persisted for over two and a half years. He expressed hope that the central leadership would resolve the differences within the coming days to prevent further political uncertainty.
Amidst the political wrangling, a notable moment of civility occurred when Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar shared a stage and exchanged words at the Matsya Mela, an event organized by the Fisheries Department at the Veterinary College in Bengaluru. This public interaction, though brief, suggested that despite their differences, both leaders remain engaged in the state's governance and political discourse.
On the same day, several MLAs visited Siddaramaiah’s residence to discuss the evolving political scenario with him and senior leader Satish Jarkiholi. The Cabinet reshuffle is eagerly anticipated by many MLAs who harbor ministerial ambitions, and the ongoing impasse has left them uncertain and anxious. They are keen for a peaceful and prompt resolution that would not only stabilize the government but also clarify their own political futures.
The leadership dispute in Karnataka’s Congress underscores the complexities of coalition politics and the challenges inherent in managing competing ambitions within a major political party. As the Congress high command weighs its options, the final decision will likely have significant implications not