Priyanka's key role in Shivakumar’s likely elevation as Karnataka CM
Congress leaders often describe Shivakumar as a key troubleshooter for the Gandhi family, handling difficult political situations and organisational responsibilities during crucial moments
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who has been aspiring to become chief minister since the Congress came to power in Karnataka in 2023 and has been making strong efforts over the past year, has now emerged as the likely future CM after reports indicate that the party high command has asked Siddaramaiah to make way for him. According to sources, Priyanka Gandhi played a key role behind Shivakumar’s likely elevation as CM.
Congress sources claim that the deputy chief minister shares a close equation with Priyanka and the Gandhi family, including Robert Vadra. They say that after he reportedly faced difficulty in securing political clarity over the CM’s post despite multiple visits to Delhi, Priyanka is believed to have played an important role in backing his case during the latest round of discussions.
Party insiders believe factors such as Shivakumar's organisational abilities, resource mobilisation capacity, and support among the influential Vokkaliga community have strengthened his position.
Congress loyalist
Sources also suggest that Sonia Gandhi has remained sympathetic towards Shivakumar because of his loyalty to the Congress party and his organisational work in states including Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana.
Shivakumar himself has, on multiple occasions in the past, publicly stated that he faced legal troubles because of his work for the Congress party and for the late Ahmed Patel during political developments linked to Rajya Sabha elections in Gujarat. He has said that he remained loyal to the Congress despite political pressure and challenges.
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Sources further point to Priyanka’s perceived influence in key political decisions within the party and claim she may have played an important role in strengthening Shivakumar's position in Karnataka as well.
Key troubleshooter for Gandhi family
According to party insiders, the political relationship between Priyanka and Shivakumar has developed over years through political trust, loyalty, and coordination. Congress leaders often describe him as a key troubleshooter for the Gandhi family, handling difficult political situations and organisational responsibilities during crucial moments.
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The Karnataka deputy chief minister has frequently put his political strength and organisational network behind the Congress during critical periods. In return, Priyanka has remained an important support system for him within the Congress leadership structure.
Congress leaders point to several instances that strengthened this equation, including the support extended by the Gandhi family during difficult periods faced by Shivakumar, and his role in party campaigns and political mobilisation.
Congress keen on smooth transition
The Congress leadership is trying to ensure a smooth political transition while balancing regional and social equations within Karnataka’s Congress unit. Sources say that after Rahul’s one-on-one meeting with Siddaramaiah, the chief minister left the final decision to the party high command. Rahul later reportedly met Sonia and Priyanka.
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Following those discussions, Rahul is said to have held another round of talks with Siddaramaiah on Tuesday (May 26), developments that have intensified speculation over Karnataka's possible leadership change.
