Karnataka Power Tussle: Will Rahul Gandhi Step In to Resolve Shivakumar vs Siddaramaiah CM Battle?
Bengaluru: Amid growing dissent within the Karnataka Congress, the party’s high command is set to intervene to quell the escalating internal turmoil. Senior leader and AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala is expected to visit Bengaluru on June 30 to address concerns raised by several disgruntled MLAs and ministers.
The development follows an increasingly public war of words among party legislators, with many openly expressing dissatisfaction with ministers and the functioning of the state leadership. Several MLAs have complained that their constituency work remains neglected and have questioned the point of continuing in office if they are not heard or respected.
Notably, MLAs such as B.R. Patil have voiced frustration, while HK Patil’s seven-page letter—which criticizes corruption and inaction within the Congress-led government—has further embarrassed the party. The letter openly questions the integrity of the government, pointing to instances of alleged corruption and maladministration.
In response, the Congress high command has reportedly cautioned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging him to rein in internal dissent and assert leadership. Sources suggest that Siddaramaiah’s recent trip to Delhi involved closed-door discussions on these issues with party leadership.
Demand for Leadership Change Gains Ground
The dissatisfaction extends beyond the state government, with multiple legislators reportedly demanding a change in the party’s Karnataka in-charge, Randeep Singh Surjewala. Many allege that he has failed to adequately address grievances and instead favors a select few influential leaders.
“There’s been discontent since the start of this government, and Surjewala has done little to resolve it,” a party insider said. “He listens, but doesn’t act. Why is he still in charge of Karnataka?”
There is also speculation that Surjewala has indicated willingness to be shifted to another state, which some insiders view as a signal that change may be imminent. Ministers have reportedly urged Siddaramaiah to push for a new in-charge to restore coordination between the government and party organization.
Caste Census, Policy Delays Linked to Surjewala’s Influence
Surjewala has also come under criticism for his perceived role in delays over key policy matters, including the contentious caste census. Some within the party allege that under his guidance, the government stalled on decisions and changed its stance due to pressure from factions close to the AICC leadership.
Leaders from backward class communities are particularly upset over the lack of clarity and assertiveness on the caste census issue and claim that Surjewala’s indecision has weakened the government’s image.
High Command’s Next Steps Awaited
While the high command, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, is said to be aware of the unrest, no official word has been issued on whether there will be a leadership reshuffle or a change in the Karnataka in-charge.
Surjewala’s visit is being viewed as an attempt to calm tensions and engage directly with dissenting MLAs and ministers. However, insiders caution that unless there is tangible follow-up, discontent may deepen and damage party unity ahead of future electoral challenges.
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