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'Local-level confusion': How Kharge's remark adds twist to Sidda vs DKS power tussle in K'taka

In the politically charged atmosphere of Karnataka, a fresh twist has emerged in the ongoing power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's recent remark labeling the leadership confusion as "local-level" has sparked intense debate, shielding the party high command while placing the onus on state leaders to resolve their differences.[8][2]

The Roots of the Karnataka Leadership Tussle

The rivalry between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar dates back to the Congress's victory in the Karnataka assembly elections. Speculation about a power-sharing arrangement has persisted, especially after the government crossed its halfway mark on November 20, 2025. MLAs from both factions have petitioned the high command, intensifying the standoff.[8][6]

Kharge's statement on Sunday came amid renewed buzz over a possible change of guard. He clarified that "the high command has not created any confusion," emphasizing that internal issues must be settled by local leadership. "If you keep blaming the high command for everything, how will the party function?" Kharge questioned, urging unity and cautioning against personal credit for electoral wins.[2][4]

Siddaramaiah, responding on Monday, deferred the leadership question to the party high command, particularly Rahul Gandhi. "I have spoken to the high command. They have said that they will decide. I will abide by whatever the high command decides," he stated in Mysuru, rejecting power-sharing talks and asserting his intent to serve a full five-year term.[6][10]

Kharge's Remark: A Shield for the High Command?

Kharge's assertion that confusion exists only at the "local level" is seen as a strategic move in a party long known for its high command culture. It raises questions: Does this endorse Siddaramaiah's continuation as CM, given no central confusion implies support for the status quo? Or is it a subtle push for local leaders to sort it out without Delhi's intervention?[8]

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara echoed this, stating on Monday that "any differences or confusions within the party over the leadership issue in the state have to be resolved locally."[8] This alignment suggests an attempt to project unity, even as factional signaling continues through public statements and social media.[12]

Kharge also stressed the collective nature of the Congress, built by workers over decades. "It is not that one person can say, 'I built the party'. Congress workers built it," he said, indirectly addressing claims of individual contributions to the 2023 victory.[2][4]

Speculation Over Power-Sharing Pact

Reports of a power-sharing deal between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have fueled the fire. Both leaders have publicly committed to abiding by high command decisions, with Shivakumar noting, "They have spoken to both of us. When they call us, we will go together."[2] Yet, the halfway mark has amplified calls for change, with Shivakumar's supporters pushing for his elevation.[6][10]

Broader Implications for Congress in Karnataka

The tussle poses risks for Congress, which holds a comfortable majority but faces internal discord spilling into public view. Kharge's downplaying of the crisis aims to maintain stability, but local confusion could erode public confidence ahead of future polls.[4][14]

Parameshwara and other loyalists have reiterated loyalty to the high command, but the standoff highlights factionalism. Siddaramaiah's deference to Rahul Gandhi signals no rebellion, yet timing remains unclear: "Whenever the high command decides."[10]

Kharge coupled his remarks with criticism of the Centre over MGNREGA changes, shifting focus to national issues. He accused the government of weakening the scheme's funding ratio from 90:10 to 60:40, calling it a "lifeline for the poor" and announcing protests.[4]

Local Leaders Urged to Take Ownership

Kharge's call for local resolution is unambiguous: "Whatever happens here should be settled by the local leadership." This shifts responsibility from Delhi, potentially pressuring Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to negotiate directly.[2][8]

Siddaramaiah has dismissed change-of-guard rumors, while Shivakumar maintains public silence but benefits from factional support. The high command's projection of unity persists, despite escalating speculation.[6][12]

Political Chatter and Media Frenzy

Media queries and political chatter have driven the narrative, with cryptic posts and open factionalism amplifying the crisis. Congress MP's response to NDTV—"Can't say now"—reflects caution at the national level.[12]

As Karnataka navigates this, Kharge's remark adds layers: endorsement of the incumbent, a push for autonomy, or mere damage control? Observers await high command action, but local dynamics will shape outcomes.[8][10]

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Analysis: What Kharge's Words Really Mean

Interpreting Kharge's statement reveals Congress's balancing act. By insulating the high command, it avoids blame while nudging rivals toward reconciliation. Siddaramaiah's full-term claim gains tacit support if no central confusion exists.[8]

Shivakumar's camp may view it as a stall tactic, awaiting Delhi's intervention. Parameshwara's local-resolution push aligns with Kharge, signaling a coordinated response.[8]

The episode underscores Congress's challenges in power retention amid internal rivalries. With a majority intact, resolution seems feasible, but prolonged tussle risks governance paralysis.[14]

Historical Context of Karnataka Congress Factions

Karnataka has witnessed similar power struggles, testing high command authority. Kharge's approach mirrors past interventions, prioritizing stability over upheaval.[2][4]

Looking Ahead: High Command's Next Move

Siddaramaiah awaits clarity, reiterating, "No one is bigger than the party. Leadership decision rests with Rahul Gandhi."[16] Speculation persists, but Kharge's local-focus remark may prolong status quo.

Both leaders' compliance pledges offer hope for unity. As protests on national issues loom, Karnataka's internal saga remains a key watchpoint for Congress's southern fortunes.[4][10]

This evolving story highlights the delicate interplay of local ambition and central authority in Indian politics, with Kharge's words as the latest pivot.[8]

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