A simmering discussion about a potential leadership change in Karnataka has brought to light a clear disagreement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Both leaders have publicly offered contrasting views on what truly holds sway when selecting the state’s top leader: is it the crucial support of elected MLAs or the powerful endorsement of the party’s central command?
Numbers Don’t Always Rule
During a recent television interview, Mr. Shivakumar emphatically stated that ‘decisions in the Congress are not solely based on numerical strength.’ He argued that the party’s central leadership ultimately makes the call, regardless of how many MLAs support a particular Chief Minister candidate. ‘I understand the Congress’s inner workings, and I can assure you that decisions are never just about the sheer number of legislative backers,’ he reiterated.
Both Factors Are Crucial
Conversely, while addressing an event in Rabkavi-Banahatti, Bagalkot district, Mr. Siddaramaiah presented a nuanced perspective, asserting that both elements are equally significant. He clarified, ‘While the high command undeniably holds supreme authority within our party, the collective voice and opinions of our MLAs are also incredibly important. Key appointments, including that of a Chief Minister, are determined by balancing both these critical factors.’ He concluded by emphasizing that ‘any significant decision requires both the consensus of the legislative assembly members and the indispensable blessings of the party’s central leadership.’
Unsurprisingly, Mr. Shivakumar’s remarks have sparked a ripple of responses from fellow ministers. Home Minister G. Parameshwara and IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge offered sharp rejoinders, highlighting that the party’s central command has historically considered the support of legislators when making crucial decisions. Dr. Parameshwara elaborated that central leaders often dispatch observers or general secretaries to Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meetings specifically to gauge the sentiment and preferences of MLAs regarding the chief ministerial nominee. He noted that typically, the candidate who garners the majority support from MLAs is ultimately chosen as Chief Minister. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Kharge added, ‘While the numerical support can vary, observers compile a comprehensive report on the CLP meeting’s overall atmosphere and dynamics, which then guides the high command’s final decision.’ Interestingly, Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar appeared to lend her support to Mr. Shivakumar, stating simply, ‘The party high command will make the final decision’ on any leadership transition. For his part, Mr. Shivakumar, who has openly expressed his aspiration for the Chief Minister’s role since the Congress’s resounding victory in the 2023 Assembly elections, dismissed rumors of a ‘November Kranthi’ (November revolution) as mere speculation, reiterating that ‘the leaders in Delhi will ultimately decide on any leadership change.’