Siddaramaiah vs DK Shivakumar: Will Breakfast Diplomacy Save Congress from Fresh Trouble?
Solidarity Amid Speculation
On november 29, 2025, cm Siddaramaiah and deputy cm DK Shivakumar publicly showed unity amid speculation over the Chief Minister's post.
Shivakumar visited Siddaramaiah’s residence, “Kaveri,” for breakfast; both addressed a joint press conference afterward.
Both leaders emphadata-sized loyalty to the party's high command and stated they would abide by its decisions.
Breakfast Diplomacy at CM’s Residence
Shivakumar hinted Siddaramaiah would reciprocate with lunch or dinner at his home.
Emphadata-sized congress unity under mallikarjun Kharge and rahul gandhi for the 2028 assembly elections.
Described as a planned move by the high command to manage internal tensions.
The Chief Minister's Question Remains
The central issue of whether Siddaramaiah completes the full five-year term or Shivakumar takes over after 2.5 years remains unresolved.
Both leaders have strong regional and caste bases, making it difficult to sideline either.
Some MLAs and caste organizations recently conveyed concerns to the high command in Delhi.
Congress’s Internal Challenges
Breakfast diplomacy has brought temporary relief but raised questions about government stability and party unity.
The main concern: can congress retain the alliance that won 136 seats in 2023?
Cracks are emerging in managing the AHINDA and Vokkaliga voter bases.
Historical Context
2023: Siddaramaiah led the AHINDA coalition; Shivakumar leveraged Vokkaliga influence to help congress win.
Resulted in a dual arrangement: Siddaramaiah as cm, Shivakumar as deputy cm and State congress President.
A tacit rotation deal (2.5 years each) existed but was never officially confirmed, maintaining temporary unity.
Political Dilemma Ahead
If Siddaramaiah completes his term, Vokkaliga discontent may rise, Shivakumar’s machinery could weaken, risking Old Mysuru’s support in 2028.
If Shivakumar takes over: AHINDA groups may feel sidelined; cabinet and administrative allies may resist implementation.
Congress data-faces a delicate balance similar to issues encountered in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.