Karnataka BJP president B. Y. Vijayendra has predicted major political developments in the state after the Bihar elections, hinting at a possible leadership change within the ruling Congress government. Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Vijayendra claimed there is growing unrest and confusion within Congress, fueled by an internal power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar.
He pointed out that discussions of a potential “October–November revolution” were coming from within Congress ranks, not the opposition. “Siddaramaiah seems to be in some hurry. If you have observed his show of strength in Mysuru two months ago, it is clear he is showcasing his power. Congress legislators and ministers are openly speaking about leadership change, not BJP members,” Vijayendra remarked.
Referring to AICC general secretary K. C. Venugopal’s recent directive for Congress leaders to stop commenting on leadership matters, Vijayendra said, “No one from the Congress leadership has denied the possibility of a change. That itself shows confusion and signals that political chaos is likely after the Bihar polls.”
The speculation over a leadership transition gained momentum last week after Congress MLA H. D. Ranganath and former MP L. R. Shivarame Gowda suggested that D. K. Shivakumar could take over as chief minister as early as November. However, Siddaramaiah dismissed these reports, asserting that he intends to complete his full five-year term, having already crossed the halfway mark.
Vijayendra, while refraining from revealing the BJP’s political strategy amid these developments, said his party would act responsibly as an opposition. “Our strength has reduced from 66 to 63 seats, but we continue to function as a responsible opposition. We will focus on issues affecting the people of Karnataka,” he said. He accused the Congress government of being “zero development, anti-poor, and anti-farmer,” alleging that the administration has failed to deliver on its promises.
Political observers note that the rivalry between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar dates back to the days immediately after the 2023 Assembly elections, when both leaders staked their claim to the chief ministership. The Congress high command intervened and convinced Shivakumar to accept the deputy CM post, reportedly with an informal understanding of a rotational arrangement after two and a half years — though the party has never publicly confirmed such a deal.
Amid these internal rifts, Vijayendra also criticized the government’s inadequate response to the recent floods and heavy rains that devastated parts of northern Karnataka. He said farmers have suffered massive crop losses and many residents have been displaced, yet the government’s relief efforts remain slow and ineffective. “The government must act immediately and address farmers’ grievances instead of making hollow assurances,” he urged.
As political tensions simmer within the Congress and the opposition sharpens its attacks, the state appears poised for an eventful phase in the months following the Bihar elections, with leadership dynamics and governance challenges at the center of Karnataka’s political narrative.
