Rahul Gandhi Meets Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar in Mysuru Amid Karnataka Power Buzz

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi held a high-profile meeting with Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar in Mysuru, a development that has attracted significant political attention amid ongoing speculation of a power tussle within the Karnataka Congress unit.

The meeting took place during Rahul Gandhi’s travel through southern India en route to Tamil Nadu, making it a politically significant stopover rather than a routine interaction. Political observers have described the interaction as an important symbolic moment, especially in the backdrop of reports suggesting internal leadership dynamics and competing power centres within the ruling party in Karnataka.

Sources familiar with the developments said the optics of the meeting are likely to be closely examined, particularly the visible camaraderie among the three leaders. Analysts believe such moments are carefully watched for signals of unity, reassurance, or possible recalibration within the party’s state leadership. While no official statement detailing the agenda of the meeting was released, the timing and setting have added weight to the political messaging.

The meeting also comes at a time when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reached a notable milestone, becoming the longest-serving Chief Minister in Karnataka’s political history. His tenure has recently been marked by the presentation of the state budget, which the Congress leadership has projected as a reflection of its governance priorities and welfare-oriented approach. Party leaders have been actively promoting what they describe as the “Karnataka model” of governance.

Within Congress circles, the Karnataka model is increasingly being positioned as a counter-narrative to the “double-engine government” pitch used by the opposition in several states. The party views Karnataka as a key example of its administrative capabilities, especially in the southern region, making internal stability crucial for its broader political strategy.

Speculation around a potential change of guard or leadership reshuffle in the state has surfaced intermittently, driven by reports of differing ambitions among senior leaders. However, the joint appearance of Rahul Gandhi with both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar is being interpreted by many as an attempt to reinforce unity and quell rumours of internal discord.

Political commentators note that Karnataka remains a strategically important state for the Congress, not just electorally but also as a platform to shape its national narrative. The presence of all three leaders together sends a message of cohesion at a time when the party is keen to avoid any perception of infighting.

As the Congress prepares for upcoming political challenges in the region, the Mysuru meeting is expected to be dissected for its symbolism and strategic intent. While the leadership has maintained silence on speculation, the visual message of togetherness appears aimed at reassuring party workers and supporters that the state unit remains aligned with the central leadership.