Karnataka’s top leaders, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, met at Shivakumar’s residence for a breakfast gathering on Tuesday. This meeting occurs as speculation about internal rifts concerning the Chief Ministerial position continues to circulate within political circles. Both leaders have consistently assured their adherence to the Congress high command’s decisions, yet rumors persist.
During the meeting, Shivakumar, along with his brother and former MP D.K. Suresh, welcomed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Following their discussions, CM Siddaramaiah addressed the media, stating, “There are no differences. D.K. Shivakumar and I are united. We are running the government. In the future also, we will run the government unitedly.” This statement aims to quell ongoing rumors of discord.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara acknowledged the recent stir, suggesting that differing aspirations are natural and are expressed at appropriate times. He characterized the breakfast meeting as a positive development, emphasizing the need for a “peaceful settlement.” Parameshwara noted that the meeting, initiated by Siddaramaiah and reciprocated by Shivakumar, signifies a smooth progression, with all issues being resolved according to the high command’s guidance.
This gathering follows a previous high-level meeting on November 29th at Siddaramaiah’s residence. That earlier discussion was described as “productive” and focused on Karnataka’s future priorities, though it was also viewed as an effort to de-escalate internal power struggle tensions. The reported “power-sharing agreement” from 2023 is often cited as the root of these persistent rumors and the need for repeated dialogues between the leaders to prevent a political crisis.