Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar Meet Over Breakfast to End Tensions
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met for breakfast on Saturday in an effort to diffuse the ongoing Karnataka CM row. The meeting, held at the CM’s residence, came after days of rising tension within the state’s Congress leadership. Moreover, the party high command in Delhi had asked both leaders to hold talks and bring stability to the government.
ಮಾನ್ಯ ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿಗಳಾದ ಶ್ರೀ ಸಿದ್ದರಾಮಯ್ಯ ಅವರನ್ನು ಇಂದು ಅವರ ಕಾವೇರಿ ನಿವಾಸದಲ್ಲಿ ಭೇಟಿಯಾಗಿ ಉಪಾಹಾರ ಸಭೆ ನಡೆಸಲಾಯಿತು.
Met Hon’ble CM Shri @siddaramaiah avaru at Cauvery Residence this morning for a breakfast meeting. A productive discussion on Karnataka’s priorities and the road ahead. pic.twitter.com/qhe7q5RNvi
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) November 29, 2025
Siddaramaiah posted photos on X of the two leaders smiling over a table of idli and sambar. Additionally, he wrote that they had a short conversation over breakfast. The images have become the most discussed visuals in Karnataka politics. One leader in the photo reportedly wants to become the next CM, while the other hopes to complete his full term despite a reported power-sharing deal.
DK Shivakumar also shared the photos on social media. Moreover, he wrote that he met the CM at Cauvery Residence for a productive discussion. He added that they spoke about Karnataka’s priorities and the way forward.
‘No Differences Between Us’: Leaders Project Unity After Crisis Talks
Following the breakfast meeting, both leaders held a joint press conference. Siddaramaiah declared that there are “no differences between us and there will be no differences in the future.” Moreover, he said their agenda is focused on the 2028 elections. They also discussed local body polls and the Congress strategy for the next assembly election cycle.
The CM insisted that the confusion around the leadership issue was created by the media. He said that both leaders had agreed to follow whatever the Congress high command decides. Additionally, he assured reporters that there would be clarity going forward.
DK Shivakumar echoed this message of unity. He said that both leaders remain committed to the development agenda. Moreover, he highlighted the importance of projecting stability to the public as the government enters a crucial phase.
The meeting also included legal advisor AS Ponnanna, who has been involved in the discussions.
Congress High Command Pushes for Resolution as Power Tussle Grows
The breakfast meeting happened after the Congress leadership in Delhi requested a face-to-face discussion. The party is keen to resolve the internal crisis before the winter session of Parliament begins on November 30.
Sources said the central leadership wants both leaders to put differences aside. Moreover, the high command has insisted that any decision on a potential CM rotation will be taken at the national level. Both leaders have publicly stated that they will follow that direction.
Siddaramaiah maintained that his stance remains unchanged. He said he will accept whatever the party decides. Additionally, DK Shivakumar has conveyed a similar position, although his supporters have been pushing for a leadership change.
Amid rising speculation, several DKS supporters held a Puja on Friday praying for him to become chief minister. Moreover, groups of supporters held a rally near Chandramouleshwara Temple on Saturday. Their show of strength added pressure to the Congress leadership.
Meanwhile, the opposition has attacked the Karnataka government over the political turmoil. Leader of Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy said that there is no development happening in the state. He claimed that Congress leaders are too focused on internal disputes rather than public issues.
Unity Message Could Calm Rift, But Questions Remain
Analysts say that the breakfast meeting and public statements may ease tensions for now. Moreover, the high command appears determined to prevent further escalation. The Congress wants to keep Karnataka stable as it remains one of the party’s strongest states.
However, many questions remain. The reported CM sharing agreement, which was discussed when the government was formed in 2023, continues to be a sensitive issue. Shivakumar has said publicly that he has been loyal to the party. Additionally, he has hinted that leadership expectations were set during government formation.
Siddaramaiah, on the other hand, enjoys strong support within the legislative party. Moreover, his welfare programs have increased his popularity among rural voters. The Congress will be cautious in handling the dispute, especially ahead of major elections in 2028.
For now, the party hopes that the united front displayed on Saturday will help shift focus back to governance. Additionally, the high command is expected to hold further discussions before announcing any decision.