Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has categorically denied the possibility of a power-sharing agreement within the state government, putting to rest speculation over a potential rotation of the Chief Minister’s post between senior Congress leaders. Speaking to the media, Siddaramaiah asserted that no such arrangement exists and that the government is functioning smoothly with a clear mandate.
The statement comes after weeks of political speculation that the Congress might implement a mid-term power-sharing formula between Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar. Reports had suggested that Shivakumar may take over as Chief Minister after two and a half years, in line with an alleged internal understanding within the party when it formed the government following the 2023 Assembly elections.
Siddaramaiah, however, dismissed these claims as unfounded. He clarified that the Congress high command had never proposed a rotational arrangement and that there is no plan to alter the leadership midway through the current term. He stressed that the party is focused on delivering its promises to the people and ensuring good governance, not internal power negotiations.
“The question of power-sharing does not arise,” Siddaramaiah said. “There is no such agreement. The Congress party has given me the responsibility of leading the government, and I will continue to do so with the full support of my colleagues.”
The Chief Minister’s comments appear aimed at reinforcing the image of stability and unity within the Congress-led government in Karnataka. His administration, which came to power with a clear majority, has been under scrutiny from both opposition parties and political observers who have pointed to perceived differences between top leaders.
Deputy CM D K Shivakumar, who played a key role in the party’s electoral success, has also maintained that he is committed to his current role and has not demanded any leadership change. While he has previously acknowledged his ambitions to become Chief Minister, he has insisted that the decision rests with the party leadership and that he respects the current structure.
Congress national leaders have so far refrained from making any public statements on the issue. However, party insiders suggest that the leadership prefers to avoid any public debate on leadership changes that could undermine the government’s performance or distract from its policy agenda.
Political analysts believe Siddaramaiah’s strong denial is intended to maintain focus on governance and avoid speculation that could be used by the opposition to question the unity within the ruling party. They also point out that any perceived instability could affect the Congress’s prospects in future elections, including the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
For now, the Karnataka Congress leadership appears to be projecting a united front. The Chief Minister has reiterated that the government’s priorities remain on implementing welfare schemes, improving infrastructure, and addressing public grievances. With this firm denial, the party aims to put an end to internal speculation and focus on delivering results.
