No Power-Sharing Pact in Karnataka, Decision on Leadership Only in Party Interest: Surjewala

Bengaluru, May 2026 : Amid growing political speculation over a possible leadership change in Karnataka, AICC General Secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala on Wednesday categorically denied the existence of any “power-sharing” arrangement within the Congress. He also said that no formal discussion has taken place regarding a change in the Chief Minister’s post, even as questions continue to swirl around the future of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Surjewala sought to put an end to the ongoing speculation, calling it baseless and politically motivated. However, he stopped short of directly addressing rumours linked to Siddaramaiah’s alleged resignation plans, keeping the party’s position deliberately guarded.

“There is no such thing as a power-sharing arrangement. Yesterday’s meeting was held in connection with the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and K.C. Venugopal participated in the discussions,” Surjewala said.

The statement came at a time when political circles in Karnataka have been abuzz with speculation about an internal understanding between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar regarding a leadership transition. Surjewala, however, maintained that no such arrangement exists within the party framework.

He further clarified that no meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) had been convened, dismissing media reports suggesting otherwise. “Many people are spreading different stories. As of now, no CLP meeting has taken place. All these are speculative reports,” he said.

Reiterating the party’s official stance, Surjewala emphasised that leadership decisions are guided solely by organisational interest and the welfare of Karnataka, not individual aspirations. He stressed that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar remain key pillars of the state Congress unit.

“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is a very important leader with strong political stature. He has served as Chief Minister twice,” Surjewala said, underscoring his experience and contribution to the party.

At the same time, he praised Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, describing him as a grassroots leader who has steadily risen through organisational ranks.

“Shivakumar has grown as a leader from the grassroots level. He has worked under several Chief Ministers. We do not take decisions in favour of individuals. Every decision is taken in the interest of the people of Karnataka,” he said.

Surjewala also revealed that senior Congress leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and K.C. Venugopal, had been involved in detailed discussions regarding candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections.

According to him, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar participated in the deliberations, where several potential names were discussed for legislative representation. However, no final list has been announced yet.

“We have had extensive discussions with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and senior leaders. Several names have been suggested for consideration,” Surjewala said.

He added that discussions are likely to continue over the next few days to finalise candidates who can ensure strong representation for both the party and the state.

“Talks may continue for another two days. The leadership will decide the most suitable candidates in the interest of Karnataka and the Congress party,” he said.

Despite persistent media speculation, Surjewala’s remarks were aimed at projecting unity within the Karnataka Congress unit and reaffirming that all decisions remain firmly under the control of the party high command.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)