Breakfast diplomacy! Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar rush to defuse Congress power struggle over Idli and Upma

The two top leaders of the Congress government, which came to power in 2023 with a sweeping mandate, met for what Siddaramaiah described as “a brief conversation” over Idli and Upma.

Siddaramaiah posted photos with Shivakumar on X, writing: "Had breakfast with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar this morning and had a brief conversation."

Shivakumar, who also serves as Karnataka Congress president, posted soon after: "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."

High command steps in after public sparring

The breakfast meet came a day after the Congress high command issued a strong directive to both leaders to resolve their differences, which had spilled into public view through sharp exchanges on X.

On Thursday, Shivakumar posted a pointed remark: “Keeping one’s word is the greatest strength in the world. Word power is world power.” — widely linked to the rumoured 2023 power-sharing deal under which he was expected to take over as CM halfway through the term.

Within hours, Siddaramaiah hit back:

“A word is not power unless it betters the world for the people. The mandate is not a moment, but a responsibility lasting five full years.”

Party insiders say the public tussle frustrated the central leadership, prompting an immediate intervention.

‘Will follow high command’s decision’: Siddaramaiah

Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah confirmed he was asked to meet Shivakumar: “I have called him for breakfast. When he comes, we will discuss the issue.”

He added that he would abide by the high command’s final instructions.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar attempted to strike a measured tone, saying: “I don’t want anything, and I am in no hurry. The party will take all decisions.”

Despite this, speculation persists regarding a rotational Chief Ministership, especially after Shivakumar’s recent reference to a “secret deal” involving “five or six leaders”.

Earlier this month, six MLAs aligned with Shivakumar reportedly visited Delhi to meet senior party leaders, fueling internal chatter.

Congress aims to avoid turmoil ahead of Delhi meet

Sources said the Congress leadership wants the duo to settle their differences before formal talks in Delhi. With the winter session of the Karnataka Assembly approaching, the party is wary of appearing divided, particularly as the BJP readies to amplify its attack.

For now, the breakfast diplomacy marks a key first attempt at de-escalation in one of the party’s most visible internal confrontations this year.