As Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar celebrated the New Year with family in Turkey, a dinner party was hosted by Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi at his Bengaluru residence on Thursday night. Attended by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his close circle, the gathering has fueled speculation about political undercurrents within the Congress party amidst discussions on a cabinet reshuffle and potential changes in the KPCC leadership.
The high-profile event saw the presence of prominent leaders, including Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara, Ministers K.N. Rajanna, Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, and several MLAs. While Jarkiholi dismissed the dinner as a casual New Year gathering, the absence of Shivakumar, who holds dual roles as Deputy CM and KPCC president, has sparked debates about factional politics within the party.
Reports suggest informal discussions may have taken place on key issues, including the potential reshuffling of the cabinet and the appointment of a new KPCC president. Some attendees reportedly raised concerns about Shivakumar’s growing influence, particularly his involvement in Belagavi politics, and his alleged unilateral decisions during Congress events.
Political analysts view the dinner as a strategic move by the Siddaramaiah camp to consolidate its position, with Opposition leaders terming it a “show of strength.” BJP leader R. Ashoka criticized the gathering, questioning the decision-making process in Shivakumar’s absence and mocking his leadership aspirations. Former CM and BJP MP Jagadish Shettar also highlighted the apparent infighting within Congress, describing it as a clash between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for dominance.
Satish Jarkiholi, however, downplayed the political significance of the event, stating it was merely a continuation of similar informal dinners held in the past. He clarified that the gathering focused on improving governance and preparing for the 2028 elections, rather than addressing leadership changes. Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa echoed these sentiments, dismissing rumors of political maneuvering.
Despite the denials, the dinner has drawn attention to internal divisions within Congress, with Shivakumar’s absence amplifying speculations about his diminishing influence in the party and potential challenges to his leadership.
