In a significant move to quell the leadership dispute in Karnataka, the Congress high command has instructed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also heads the state party unit, to convene a meeting and report their outcome to the central leadership. This directive aims to resolve the ongoing power struggle between the two prominent leaders.
Following the high command’s advice, Siddaramaiah has extended an invitation to Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting scheduled for Saturday morning. His itinerary for the day has been cleared to facilitate this crucial discussion. While the invitation has been made, Shivakumar’s immediate response remains unconfirmed.
AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal has personally engaged with both leaders, urging them to find a resolution amongst themselves and then communicate their decision to the party’s central leadership. This approach is intended to prevent further internal discord and potential embarrassment for the party.
Sources indicate that if the bilateral talks prove successful, a planned joint visit to Delhi to seek a resolution from the national leadership will likely be canceled. However, should the leaders fail to reach an agreement, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are expected to be summoned to Delhi for further deliberations. The Chief Minister has affirmed his commitment to abiding by the high command’s final decision, a stance reportedly echoed by Shivakumar.
The leadership tussle has been marked by public statements and competing claims from both factions, highlighting the underlying tension. The party’s immediate objective is to foster discipline and project a unified image as it prepares for upcoming political challenges.