Shivakumar’s “Share Power” Remark Reignites Karnataka Tussle

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Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has once again brought the topic of power-sharing to the forefront of national political discourse with a recent, pointed statement at a Congress event in Delhi. While praising the Gandhi family for what he called an act of political sacrifice, Shivakumar remarked, “Some of us don’t even agree to share power.” The comment has been widely interpreted as a subtle reference to the ongoing power-sharing debate with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Karnataka, a rivalry that has been a consistent undercurrent in the state’s politics since the Congress party’s victory.

Speaking at an event organized by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Shivakumar lauded Sonia Gandhi’s decision in 2004 to decline the post of Prime Minister. He highlighted her choice to instead recommend a leader from a minority community, describing it as an “unparalleled act of political sacrifice.” He then contrasted this with the political landscape today. “Does anyone even sacrifice a small position today? Even at the panchayat level, many don’t. Some MLAs and ministers share power, but some of us don’t even agree to share power,” he said.

The remarks come amidst persistent speculation about a rotational chief minister formula in Karnataka, a rumor that has been repeatedly denied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Siddaramaiah has firmly stated that he will serve a full five-year term, seemingly putting an end to the speculation. However, Shivakumar’s comments have once again fueled the debate and are seen as a strategic move to keep the issue alive within the party.

This isn’t the first time the internal tensions have spilled over into the public domain. Last month, aides of both leaders were involved in an altercation at Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi, an incident that showed the strained relationship between the two camps. The friction has been a source of concern for the Congress high command, which has previously issued directives for party members to avoid making public statements on the matter. Shivakumar’s recent words, while not directly naming anyone, are a clear indication that the desire for a larger role in the government remains a significant factor in Karnataka’s political landscape.