Karnataka Politics: Delhi’s political corridors may be far away, but the ripple from a breakfast table in Bengaluru has stirred conversations across Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar, locked in a months-long tussle over leadership transition, sat down for a much-publicised “Khane Pe Charcha” on Saturday , and the meeting has suddenly changed the tone of the state’s politics.
After the discussion, Shivakumar told reporters he was prepared to “wait”, while Siddaramaiah said he would abide by whatever the Congress high command decides. Their remarks have strengthened speculation that the party has worked out a new behind-the-scenes power-sharing formula, with the final approval expected from Delhi.
A Carefully Timed Truce
The breakfast meeting was not just a friendly gesture. Political analysts believe the Congress orchestrated it deliberately to project unity and stop the internal rift from spilling into the open. With upcoming political deadlines, the party cannot afford a public clash between its two biggest Karnataka leaders.
What the New Formula Looks Like
According to senior party sources, the arrangement keeps Shivakumar as Deputy Chief Minister for now, while a slow transition of power is expected around March–April 2026. Till then, he will continue playing a major role in organisation and strategy.
The formula may also include:
- Additional ministries for Shivakumar’s supporters
- Continuation of Shivakumar as Karnataka Congress President
- Siddaramaiah’s full backing to Shivakumar for the 2028 Assembly elections
Why DK Shivakumar Can’t Push Right Now
Despite his ambition, Shivakumar does not have the legislative strength to demand an immediate change. The high command also does not want to risk replacing Siddaramaiah , a senior AHINDA leader , at a sensitive political moment. Given the circumstances, the compromise is being seen as the best available option for him.
Siddaramaiah’s Final Lap
Siddaramaiah has already declared this term his last. With his legacy secured and influence intact, he seems willing to agree to a structured exit plan rather than resist a transition the party wants.
Will the Deal Hold?
The understanding has calmed tempers, but doubts remain. Karnataka politics has a history of last-minute reversals, and much will depend on whether both camps maintain trust and whether the Congress leadership enforces the timeline firmly.
Caste dynamics also loom large: Siddaramaiah’s AHINDA base and Shivakumar’s Vokkaliga influence are both critical to Congress’s stability. The party will be cautious not to upset this balance.
For now, the storm has quietened , but many believe the real battle may have simply shifted out of sight, turning the power struggle into a quieter, more strategic contest behind closed doors.
