We Will Face It: Sidda-DKS In Single Voice On BJP’s No-Confidence Motion Threat In Karnataka
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar presented a united front after a crucial breakfast meeting, dismissing threats of a no-confidence motion from the BJP and JD(S) while deferring to the Congress high command on leadership matters.
Siddaramaiah emphasised solidarity, stating that he and Shivakumar would obey any decision from the party leadership. He dismissed speculation of differences between them, adding that the opposition’s no-confidence talk held no weight as the government stood ready to face it.
Shivakumar echoed this resolve, asserting the duo’s capability to manage both the assembly and administration effectively.
The meeting signalled deference to Delhi amid an escalating power struggle rooted in caste dynamics. Siddaramaiah, from the Kuruba community (7-8% of the population), anchors the AHINDA coalition of minorities, backward classes, and Dalits, challenging traditional Vokkaliga-Lingayat dominance. Shivakumar, backed by the Vokkaliga base (11-12%), has support from seers like Adichunchanagiri Mutt pontiff Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji urging his elevation.
AHINDA factions warn of repercussions if Siddaramaiah is removed, while Vokkaliga outfits invoke a supposed 2023 power-sharing pact after 2.5 years. Leaked caste census data showing OBCs at 20% has heightened tensions, framing the rift as Kuruba-led OBC versus Vokkaliga interests.
Shivakumar highlighted key issues for the Winter Session of Parliament, urging Congress MPs to press the Centre on unfulfilled promises like aid for sugarcane and maize farmers. He noted recent representations by Siddaramaiah and Gundu Rao to the Prime Minister, calling for unified action in the state’s welfare. The leaders also discussed strategies for the 2028 assembly elections, stressing fulfilment of the massive mandate given in 2023.
On leadership, both leaders reaffirmed loyalty as “soldiers” of the party, confident in repeating power in 2028 under Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. Congress MP and party’s general secretary-organisation KC Venugopal dismissed the row said unity prevailed in Bengaluru with nothing untoward emerging.
Insiders warn the tussle erodes governance focus, distracting from administrative stability ahead of Parliament and assembly sessions. Siddaramaiah enjoys strong MLA backing and AHINDA credibility, bolstered by his push for Kuruba inclusion in Scheduled Tribes. Shivakumar’s organisational strength remains vital for polls, yet prolonged uncertainty could fuel legislator discontent and BJP exploitation.
Congress denies any formal 2.5-year deal, with Siddaramaiah’s son Yathindra dismissing such claims. Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer Hussain indicated a high command decision before the Winter Session, privy to 2023 details. Priyank Kharge praised the leadership’s timing to prevent national spill-over, especially with Kerala and Assam polls looming.
The Karnataka crisis tests Rahul Gandhi’s social justice agenda, central to the 2023 victory via guarantees. Ousting Siddaramaiah risks alienating OBC voters, echoing losses in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab. Shivakumar’s Vokkaliga-Lingayat sway (around 28% combined) carries weight, but unity trumps individual ambitions.
Siddaramaiah’s appeal among SCs, STs, Muslims, and OBCs positions him against upper-caste dominance, aligning with caste census advocacy. High command summons to Delhi underscore the shift from Bengaluru, prioritising the welfare model against BJP criticism. Shivakumar’s Delhi engagements yielded no shift, favouring continuity for now.
