Basavaraj Bommai, former Karnataka Chief Minister and current BJP Member of Parliament, has indicated that the Congress party is considering replacing Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister of Karnataka, suggesting the veteran leader might be reassigned to a national position as chairman of its backward-class wing. Bommai described the move as “an important development in Karnataka politics”, while framing it as an internal Congress decision on which he preferred not to comment.
Bommai asserted that when a leader of Siddaramaiah’s stature departs a state leadership role, they are frequently reassigned to an influential national post. He noted, “They are often given a position at the national level”. His comments come against a backdrop of heightened speculation over the future of Siddaramaiah’s tenure in Bengaluru.
Despite mounting conjecture, Siddaramaiah reaffirmed his commitment to serve the full term in office. During a cabinet meeting at Nandi Hills, he issued a firm directive to ministers to refrain from public commentary on internal matters and cautioned against leaks and factional discord. His stance followed a visible warning to lawmakers against public speculation.
The undercurrent of leadership manoeuvres gained further traction when Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar made a pointed remark after visiting Chamundi Hills temple: “Even if efforts fail, prayers never go unanswered.” This cryptic statement is being interpreted by observers as signalling his aspiration to lead.
The central Congress leadership has responded by initiating performance reviews across Karnataka. Randeep Singh Surjewala, the party’s in-charge for the state, disclosed that comprehensive assessments are underway targeting election guarantees, district organisational strength and policy responsiveness. He emphasised that no decision on leadership change has been made, affirming, “The answer is clearly a no,” when asked if Siddaramaiah’s removal was on the table.
Bommai used the occasion to critique Siddaramaiah beyond leadership speculation, accusing him of making misleading financial allegations against the Union government. He claimed Karnataka is due significantly greater central grants under the 15th Finance Commission, yet accused the state government of concealing the improved figures to deflect from its own shortcomings.
The swirl of speculation has prompted Congress to impose disciplinary measures. Notices have reportedly been served to legislators making public statements about a change in guard. This move indicates the party’s resolve to assert control over the narrative.
Bommai’s remarks linked Madhya Pradesh chief ministerial replacements to a broader party strategy, rather than isolated state-level considerations. His analysis underscores a pattern observed when senior leaders are shifted out of state roles — they often receive national-level appointments.
As the political temperature rises, insiders indicate that deliberations within Congress are likely intensifying. A shift in the chief ministerial slot could consolidate internal consensus or pre-empt emerging power centres. Whether Siddaramaiah transitions to a national leadership role, or whether DK Shivakumar’s implied readiness signals a change, remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah’s resolve appears firm. Though facing internal challenges and high-level reviews, he maintains his position and authority. With both state and national dynamics in play, Karnataka is witnessing a strategic political redesign — one that could redefine its leadership and alter its policy trajectory ahead of future electoral contests.
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