In the ongoing saga of internal strife within the Congress in Karnataka, a fresh development has taken centre stage: PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, known to be close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, recently met with several MLAs — a move that has stirred intense speculation about power sharing and future leadership in the state.
What’s going on: The Jarkiholi-MLA meeting
Satish Jarkiholi held a meeting with MLAs amid growing unrest over the alleged 2023 “power-sharing pact” between Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.
During this meeting, Jarkiholi reportedly reiterated his loyalty to Siddaramaiah, making it clear that he would not abandon him or back any move undermining the sitting Chief Minister — at least not unless directed by the party high command.
The meeting comes at a time when Shivakumar’s camp is pushing hard for a leadership change, claiming the 2023 agreement envisaged rotation of the CM’s post after about 2.5 years.
Why it matters: Stakes are high
The meeting holds significance on several counts:
Sign of internal consolidation: By gathering MLAs, Jarkiholi seems to be signalling that the Siddaramaiah camp still commands loyalty and is prepared to resist any forced change — possibly a warning to those pushing for rotation.
Challenge to power-sharing narrative: The loyalty declaration erodes claims of a smooth transition or rotation, casting doubt on Shivakumar’s camp’s readiness for takeover.
Implications for 2028 and beyond: Discussions reportedly touched upon long-term party roadmap — including caste/region balance and representation of backward classes — suggesting that the Congress is already thinking beyond the immediate crisis.
What Could Happen Next
The state unit of the party and national leadership might step in to decide whether to honour the alleged 2023 pact — or to shelve it.
If the high command favours continuity, Jarkiholi’s meeting may act as a bulwark to stabilise Siddaramaiah’s position. If not, internal dissent and further realignments are possible.
This tension may influence Congress’s strategy ahead of the next assembly elections; BJP and opposition will likely use this instability for their advantage.
(FAQ)
Q: Why is Satish Jarkiholi meeting MLAs now?
A: He met MLAs amid rumors of a leadership change to reaffirm loyalty to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and counter claims of a secret power-sharing agreement favouring DK Shivakumar.
Q: What is the alleged power-sharing pact in Karnataka Congress?
A: According to leaders in Shivakumar’s camp, there was an understanding in 2023 that the Chief Minister’s post would rotate after 2.5 years — from Siddaramaiah to Shivakumar. However, this has never been officially confirmed by the party.
Q: Does Jarkiholi’s meeting mean Siddaramaiah’s camp is stronger?
A: It suggests that there is still significant support within Congress for Siddaramaiah. By rallying MLAs, Jarkiholi appears to be strengthening his camp’s bargaining position.
Q: Could this lead to a split in party or a fresh chief minister appointment?
A: It’s possible — if the high command decides to honour the pact, it could lead to a leadership change. But if they reject it, the risk is internal dissent, but likely no split if loyalty holds.
Q: What does this mean for Karnataka’s political stability and governance?
A: The tussle may impact governance, as factions vie for power. There is risk of instability — but if resolved promptly by the high command, the government could continue functioning smoothly.
Published by : Deepa R
Published on : 26th November
source credit : India Today Video Desk
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed