Kharge to Convene Key Meeting in Delhi to End Karnataka Leadership Tussle

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday announced that he will convene a meeting of senior party leaders in New Delhi — including Rahul Gandhi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar — to resolve the intensifying leadership issue in Karnataka.

Kharge said the purpose of the meeting is to “end the confusion” and decide the way forward for the government, which recently completed half its five-year term.

Rumoured Power-Sharing Deal Back in Focus

Speculation over a possible change of chief minister has grown since November 20, when the Congress government crossed its halfway mark. According to political chatter, a 2023 power-sharing formula allegedly involved Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar splitting the five-year tenure — a claim both leaders have never confirmed publicly but which continues to trigger internal tensions.

Kharge: ‘Will call everyone and settle the issue’

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Kharge said:

• “I will call three–four important leaders and discuss. After the discussion, we will say how to go ahead and put an end to the confusion.”

• “Rahul Gandhi will be part of it. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister will also join.”

He emphasised that the final decision would be taken only after consulting all stakeholders.

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar Signal Cooperation

Even as speculation swirled, both top Karnataka leaders publicly maintained that they would abide by the high command’s directive.

• Siddaramaiah said: “Will go to Delhi if the high command calls.”

• Shivakumar echoed: “I will go if summoned by the top leadership.”

Siddaramaiah Meets Supporters

Before Kharge’s statement, Siddaramaiah held a closed-door meeting at his Bengaluru residence with senior ministers seen close to him — G. Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, H.C. Mahadevappa, K. Venkatesh and K.N. Rajanna — prompting fresh speculation about internal manoeuvring.