Karnataka Politics: The leadership strife in Karnataka’s higher circles has erupted publicly and on social media. On November 28, 2025, DK Shivakumar used X (formerly Twitter) to share a message indicating that “Word power is world power”, which was a clear reference to when he expected to become Chief Minister. His supporters and critics have interpreted the comment as a hint at requesting that the power-sharing agreement made in 2023 should be honoured.
Siddaramaiah responded by saying a “A word is not power unless it makes life for the rest of the world better,” going on to state that the people had given him a mandate for five consecutive years and were therefore under no obligation to resign prior to that time. He pointed out many of the welfare programs that had been created by his Government, indicating that he doesn’t intend to resign in mid-tenure.
This drama between the two men clearly indicates that it is no longer a case of “whisper politics” and therefore has brought the animosity between them to light.
How did it get to this chaotic point?
Karnataka Politics: According to sources in the ruling Party, it was after the party’s victory in the 2023 election that the idea of a power-sharing agreement became a possibility; following the election, a power-sharing agreement was made. The agreement stipulated that Siddharamiah would serve as Chief Minister during a portion of the first half of the term (approximately 2.5 years), with the expectation that he would resign, and the responsibility of being CM would then go to DK Shivakumar.
What is at stake for Karnataka?
Governance in a time of uncertainty: The fight for supremacy within the power struggle has the potential to distract government and policymakers from responding to current threats/obstacles to policymaking/delivery effectively. It also provides opportunities for both political parties to avoid focusing on providing public services (i.e., governing). The institutional attention shift has been away from public service to internal government fighting within the institution.
Congress’s reputation and stability
The visibility of infighting amongst members of Congress could have an adverse effect on the image/confidence level of the ruling party. The opposing political party(s) are using this confusion to question the unity and decision-making abilities of Congress. As noted earlier, some rival political parties have demanded clarity, some going so far as to use this public display of internal conflict to demand that Congress call for new elections.
The community/caste equation: Both leaders in question have an important representation of the regional electorate and caste-group support base. Any alteration would have a significant impact on the reshuffling of the support base, especially in the Vokkaliga and OBC caste-communities. Therefore, any changes could alter the demographics and social balance of the Constitution and have an effect on future electoral politics.
What happens next, and by whom is it determined?
Karnataka Politics: The all-seeing eyes are on the high command of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC), including the senior leaders who had indicated their willingness to intervene. A meeting between leaders from both states and leaders from the central government is imminent to conclude this period of turmoil.
If high command opts to retain Siddaramaiah, he would likely be affirmed for a full five-year term, thereby assuring stability for those who support him and provide for those who believe in him, albeit at the potential expense of angering those who support Shivakumar.
If the high command chooses to go with Shivakumar, the transition can be either seamless or can give rise to a new struggle.
