Congress yet to fix date on Karnataka leadership change talks, says Kharge

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday (May 1) said that no date has been finalised so far to discuss the issue of possible leadership change in Karnataka, adding that he could not make any conclusive statement on the matter unless the date is fixed.

Kharge’s remarks come at a time when speculations over a power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy D K Shivakumar are gaining momentum.

Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, the Congress chief further stated that any decision regarding the leadership issue in the state would be a collective one taken by himself, Sonia and Rahul Gandhi.

Top leadership’s call

"See, we will take a decision together, the three of us: I as the AICC president, Sonia Gandhi as the Congress Parliamentary Party president, and Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. That is why we always act together," said Kharge.

Also Read: No CM change in Karnataka for now: Kharge breaks silence on leadership tussle

"When the three of us fix a date together, we will make a decision. Since no date has been fixed yet, how can I say whether a change is happening or not?" adding that the Congress leadership follows a consultative process before arriving at any conclusion.

Consultative process

"In the high command, we have extensive discussions among ourselves and also consult other senior leaders. We consider what the outcome would be and then take steps accordingly," Kharge said.

Also Read: Karnataka power tussle: BJP leader calls Siddaramaiah ‘Sultan for 15 days’

Urging the media to avoid “misrepresenting” the matter, Kharge told reporters that when it gets finalised, he would definitely inform them. He noted that he often avoids commenting publicly to prevent misrepresentation.

‘Decision binding on all’

Emphasising party discipline, Kharge said any eventual decision would be binding on all.

"Whatever decision is taken, it will be in the interest of the state, and everyone will have to support whatever decision the high command takes," he said.

On Thursday, Kharge said there was no change of CM in Karnataka "for now" and that the leadership issue in the state would be resolved soon.

Succession buzz

The remarks come amid ongoing speculation over an alleged understanding for a power transfer to Shivakumar when the Congress government completes its halfway mark in November 2025.

Also Read: DK Shivakumar reaffirms faith in Congress high command amid Karnataka leadership buzz

While Siddaramaiah has asserted that he intends to complete a full five-year term, he has also said he would abide by any decision taken by the party leadership.

Recently, Shivakumar and his brother, D K Suresh's visit to Delhi triggered speculation of a leadership change. His supporters are also charged up.

(With agency inputs)