In the current political landscape, the alliance between the BJP and JD(S), coupled with the emotionally charged inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, has amplified the sentiments of Hindus. However, the Congress, which secured victory against the saffron party in Assembly elections, now faces vulnerability due to internal discord.
While the CM Siddaramaiah-led state cabinet retracted consent for a CBI inquiry against Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar in a DA case, signs of internal strife emerged within the grand old party. A dinner meeting attended by prominent leaders highlighted fissures within the party, with demands for additional Deputy CM positions and a bid to influence the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The meeting attendees, including influential Dalit leaders and ministers, proposed more DyCM posts to bolster electoral prospects. Yet, beneath the surface, the proposal also seems aimed at diminishing the influence of Deputy CM and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, who holds significant sway parallel to CM Siddaramaiah.
Minister Mahadevappa emphasized the demand as a measure based on capability and experience rather than caste considerations. However, K.N. Rajanna proposed the allocation of DyCM posts across various communities, subject to the high command's decision.
Jarkiholi, a prominent leader from north Karnataka, advocated for three DyCM posts during his visit to New Delhi, highlighting the importance of representation from Dalit and minority leaders amid the looming Lok Sabha elections.
The internal rift within the ruling Congress party in Karnataka is apparent. Shivakumar's aspirations for the CM position, coupled with Siddaramaiah's strategic moves to highlight the creation of more DyCM posts, intensify the internal dynamics.
In contrast, the BJP has managed to pacify rebel leaders through high command interventions, silencing dissenting voices and adopting an offensive stance against the ruling party.
Former PM H.D. Deve Gowda openly expressed his determination to defeat Congress in the state, stressing on the need to prioritize defeating the incumbent party over seat-sharing concerns.
The BJP, drawing parallels with the Maharashtra crisis, suggests the potential for early Assembly elections, heightening political tensions in the state.
The Congress high command, pivotal in maintaining harmony between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, faces the challenge of preserving unity between these influential leaders, knowing that their cohesion forms the bedrock of the party's strength. The opposition eagerly awaits the opportune moment to capitalize on any discord.
Karnataka's political landscape is poised to intensify post-Lok Sabha elections, with experts predicting heightened tensions and increased political fervor.
(With Agency Inputs)
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