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Karnataka is witnessing a power struggle within the Congress over the Chief Minister’s post, but this isn’t the state’s first triangular battle. A similar tussle occurred in 2006-07 when coalition politics and rotational arrangements between JD(S) and BJP led to instability, multiple CM changes, and eventually President’s rule.
Historic CM Face-Offs in Karnataka: Triangular Battles Resurface
Bengaluru: The tussle over the Chief Minister's post continues among ruling leaders in Karnataka. Recently, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met for breakfast, somewhat easing the power struggle between Idli-Sambhar and the BJP. However, this conflict is not new to state politics.
The story begins in 2004, when the Congress, JD(S), and BJP contested the Karnataka Assembly elections. None of them secured a majority. In this situation, the JD(S) became the kingmaker and formed a government in alliance with the Congress. This alliance introduced a new political equation in the state's politics.
Karnataka CM Row: DK Shivakumar meets Siddaramaiah for breakfast; Congress high command intervenes
In 2006, JD(S) chief Kumaraswamy formed an alliance with the BJP. According to the agreement, both parties would alternate the Chief Minister's post for 20 months each. Kumaraswamy became the first Chief Minister. However, over time, differences began to emerge between the two parties over corruption and development work.
When the BJP offered to hand over the Chief Minister's post after 20 months, the JD(S) reneged on its promise. Kumaraswamy flatly refused to step down. The BJP, feeling betrayed, broke the alliance. This controversy created turmoil in Karnataka politics.
In October 2007, Kumaraswamy resigned as Chief Minister. The Karnataka Governor suggested dissolving the Assembly and imposing President's rule. The political crisis continued in the state for several months.
Sidddaramaiah-DK Shivakumar Breakfast Meeting: Will it end Karnataka’s power tug of war?
In May 2008, Karnataka held assembly elections again, in which the BJP won with 110 seats. This put an end to the years-long political struggle and provided stability to the government.
The battle for the Chief Minister's post has repeatedly surfaced in Karnataka politics. Alliances and political ambition have influenced the state's governance. Given the current conflict, history is a reminder that the race for power sometimes breaks alliances and leads to long-term instability.
