lingayats

Is Congress repeating the Veerendra Patil mistake in Karnataka?

Karnataka faces a significant political shift as veteran leaders like Siddaramaiah, Deve Gowda, and Yediyurappa recede, leaving a void in statewide emotional trust. Decades of personality-driven, caste-centric, and family politics have hindered the rise of a strong second line of leadership, potentially ushering in an era of coalition-based governance.

Outgoing Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's last-minute acceptance of the caste census report presents a political dilemma for successor DK Shivakumar. The report, potentially validating the strength of backward classes, could alienate dominant communities. This also challenges Rahul Gandhi's national push for caste data, risking accusations of hypocrisy if not acted upon.

Replacing Siddaramaiah with DK Shivakumar as Karnataka CM could challenge Congress's core Ahinda support base. Siddaramaiah's strong connect with minorities, backward classes, and Dalits is crucial for the party's social arithmetic. Shivakumar, while a strong organizer, lacks Siddaramaiah's deep emotional and social reach, potentially alienating key voter segments ahead of the 2028 elections.

Karnataka's political landscape has been defined by frequent instability since 1956, with only three Chief Ministers completing full five-year terms. The state has witnessed numerous resignations, coalition collapses, and leadership changes, often triggered by internal party dissent, defections, and corruption allegations.

Karnataka's Backward Classes Commission has submitted its long-delayed caste census report to the government after a nudge from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The report, comprising over 300 pages, will now be presented to the cabinet for a decision on its implementation, a move seen as politically significant.

Karnataka's Congress faces a leadership crisis as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar's power struggle intensifies. The party high command is exploring options, including a potential national role for Siddaramaiah, to avert a political fallout and maintain stability, while speculation of mid-term polls looms.

Congress picked a new CM midstream to try and blunt Karnataka’s anti-incumbency instincts. But that won’t address deep regional inequalities. Plus, don’t bet on ex-CM being politically passive

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has resigned, concluding a prolonged power struggle with Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar. Despite being offered a Rajya Sabha seat and a national party role, Siddaramaiah declined, stating his commitment to serving as an MLA. His departure marks the end of a significant era in state politics, built on welfare and backward class mobilization.

Congress narrowly retained the Davanagere South seat, with its victory margin significantly reduced due to minority unrest and internal dissent. A substantial split in minority votes, exacerbated by numerous Muslim candidates, contributed to the close contest. Despite challenges, women voters, particularly from minority communities, provided crucial support.