The power struggle continues between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar for the post of CM in Karnataka. Both the leaders met and said that they will accept the decision of the party high command. The high command may take a decision on this soon.
Bengaluru: Amid the growing power struggle over the Chief Minister’s chair, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on Saturday met his deputy DK Shivakumar at an important breakfast at his residence. Both the leaders tried to calm the matter by eating traditional idli and sambar. CM Siddaramaiah had already invited Shivakumar to resolve the ongoing crisis within the party. CM’s legal advisor AS Ponanna was also present in this meeting.
Whatever the high command says will be acceptable to both of them.
Amidst this tussle, Siddaramaiah said that there has been no change in his stand. The high command has called both of us, so I have called him (DK Shivakumar) for breakfast and we will talk there. As I said earlier, I will obey whatever the high command says; There is no change in my stand. DK Shivkumar has also said that whatever the high command says, we will follow it….”
On CM’s question, Shivkumar said- no hurry
Congress is likely to discuss the crisis with central leaders after the party’s strategy group meeting ahead of the winter session of Parliament on November 30. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar reiterated on Friday that any decision regarding leadership will be taken by the Congress high command. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Shivakumar answered questions asked by his supporters on their desire to see him as the next CM. DK Shivakumar said, “Party workers may be curious, but I am in no hurry. The party will take all decisions.” He did not rule out a visit to the national capital, although he clarified that his visit would be to raise several key issues with the Congress leadership ahead of the winter session of Parliament.
The high command led by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge may take a decision soon. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have expressed their willingness to follow the party’s decision. The tussle, heightened by the “power-sharing agreement” between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in 2023, has forced loyalists from both sides to lobby for their leaders’ claims to the state’s top post.