Karnataka CM Row: DK Shivakumar Gets Big Boost as Vokkaliga Math Pushes for Leadership Change

The power struggle within the Karnataka Congress has intensified, with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah both working behind the scenes to secure their political futures. As lobbying accelerates from Bengaluru to Delhi, supporters of the two senior leaders have begun trading sharp words, highlighting the widening rift within the party. Adding a new twist to the internal tussle, the influential Adichunchanagiri Math has now publicly backed Shivakumar for the Chief Minister's post.

Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji, the head of Adichunchanagiri Math, has openly appealed to the Congress high command to appoint D.K. Shivakumar as Karnataka's next Chief Minister. Swamiji claimed he has been closely watching the state's political developments and urged the party leadership to take a prompt decision on the top post. He emphasised that while the Vokkaliga Math has always supported all communities, the time has come for Congress to honour its earlier commitment to Shivakumar.

Swamiji also noted that Shivakumar, despite visiting the Math multiple times, never requested political backing or indulged in lobbying. The Math had earlier expected Shivakumar to be given the Chief Minister's position, and a two-year power-sharing promise was reportedly discussed. However, Swamiji expressed disappointment that this commitment was not fulfilled.

The Math's criticism of the Congress leadership's unfulfilled promise has amplified the political pressure inside the ruling party. Swamiji stressed that while caste alone cannot determine the welfare of the state, Shivakumar is capable, experienced, and deserving of an opportunity to lead. He described the Congress state president as a "disciplined soldier" who remained loyal through several party crises.

Despite the strong words of support, Swamiji clarified that the final decision on the Chief Ministership lies with the Congress high command. Yet the spiritual endorsement significantly strengthens Shivakumar's political claim at a time when the party's internal balance appears fragile.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar's supporters have been stationed in Delhi for days, sparking speculation that he may meet Sonia Gandhi on 29 November. His camp believes a leadership change is long overdue and argue that he deserves to head the government for at least half the tenure, in line with earlier expectations. Swamiji echoed this sentiment, adding that Shivakumar is "blessed by God" and should be elevated without delay.

As both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar attempt to consolidate their positions, the Congress unit in Karnataka finds itself at a critical juncture. The intervention of the Vokkaliga Math - a significant socio-religious force with strong regional influence - has added a new dimension to the already tense leadership debate.

With political pressure rising from both within and outside the party, the Congress high command's decision in the coming days will be crucial, not just for the two leaders involved but for the party's stability and future in Karnataka.