Rahul Gandhi sends reassuring message to Shivakumar before decision.
Rahul reassures Shivakumar ahead of crucial Karnataka decision.
Amid rising tension over Karnataka’s leadership choice, Rahul Gandhi told DK Shivakumar to “wait” as he promised a call, while Shivakumar also seeks a meeting with Sonia Gandhi.
Amid an intensifying leadership tussle in Karnataka, the Congress high command is reportedly moving toward a decision on whether any change should be made in the chief ministership before the Parliament session begins on December 1. As political conversations picked up pace in Delhi and Bengaluru, a quiet but telling moment unfolded between two of the party’s top leaders: Rahul Gandhi finally responded to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar after days of repeated attempts from the latter to reach him.
According to senior party sources, Shivakumar had been trying to get in touch with Rahul Gandhi for nearly a week, hoping to discuss internal rumblings and the growing uncertainty around the leadership issue. After several missed attempts, Gandhi eventually responded, sending a brief WhatsApp message: “Please wait, I will call you.” The short reply, sources say, has been interpreted in multiple ways—some view it as a sign that the Congress is proceeding cautiously, while others see it as an indication that the high command wants to manage communication tightly as deliberations continue.
Adding to the political activity, Shivakumar is preparing to travel to Delhi on November 29. He has requested an appointment with Sonia Gandhi, who is expected to return to the national capital that same day. Party insiders say Shivakumar hopes to present his perspective directly, especially at a time when speculation is running high over whether the central leadership is exploring alternative options or evaluating the performance of the current administration.
Meanwhile, another meeting involving Priyank Kharge and Sharath Bacchegowda also drew attention. The two Congress leaders had sought to meet Rahul Gandhi to brief him on an AI-powered device they were scheduled to unveil at the Karnataka Tech Summit. But instead of focusing on the technology aspect, the conversation reportedly shifted to political concerns. Rahul Gandhi is said to have questioned them on the alleged “vote chori” in Aland, raising concerns about electoral irregularities and the role of Chilume, the NGO linked to voter-revision activities. This shift in tone, sources suggest, indicates that the party leadership is increasingly attentive to issues that could impact public trust and future elections.
‘May or may not go to Delhi’
Speaking to India Today, DK Shivakumar attempted to downplay the speculation swirling around his upcoming visit. He reiterated that he stands by whatever decision the high command ultimately makes. Emphasising his commitment to party discipline, he noted that Karnataka’s cabinet meeting is scheduled for Thursday, followed by the Indira Gandhi Anganwadi programme the next day. Only after those commitments, he said, would he decide whether he “may or may not” fly to Delhi. The phrasing, while cautious, only added more interest to the political developments.
Shivakumar also pointed out that several pending matters require urgent clarity before the Parliament session begins. Among these are the finalisation of plans for 100 new Congress offices in Karnataka and ongoing discussions regarding MLC seats. These decisions, he said, are significant and must be taken up with the central leadership.
An undercurrent of uncertainty
Within the Congress, conversations about leadership in Karnataka have been simmering for weeks. While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah continues to enjoy support from a sizeable section of the party’s MLAs, Shivakumar’s loyalists believe that the power-sharing formula discussed before the 2023 Assembly elections should still be honoured. Although no such agreement was ever formally acknowledged by the high command, the political undercurrent remains. Supporters of both leaders are watching developments closely as the party evaluates performance, governance challenges, and internal equations.
Rahul Gandhi’s short message—just seven words—has therefore taken on a significance far beyond its length. Political observers note that such brevity from a senior leader often signals careful strategy rather than indecision. The Congress leadership, according to insiders, wants to avoid fueling speculation or triggering premature reactions within the party ranks.
Sonia Gandhi’s expected return to Delhi on November 29 has further heightened anticipation. Many in the party view her as a stabilising force whose counsel is particularly valued during sensitive restructuring decisions. Whether she grants Shivakumar an immediate audience, and what conclusion emerges from those discussions, may shape Karnataka’s political landscape in the coming months.
Looking ahead
As December 1 approaches, anxiety and speculation continue to build. Will the Congress make a decisive move before the Parliament session, or will it choose stability over disruption? Will Shivakumar’s visit to Delhi bring clarity, or deepen the mystery? For now, the party appears focused on managing internal communication carefully while preparing for potential changes—if any.
What remains clear is that the signals coming from Delhi will set the tone for Karnataka’s Congress leadership for the foreseeable future. And for now, those signals remain cautious, deliberate, and tightly controlled.