Bengaluru, November 29, 2025: In a clear signal to quell growing speculation about internal discord in the Karnataka Congress, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar held a joint press conference on Saturday, emphasizing that they remain united and committed to following the directions of the party’s high command.

Speaking from his residence, where the two leaders also shared breakfast, Siddaramaiah assured the media that any misunderstandings had been resolved ahead of the upcoming Assembly session in Belagavi. “We have both decided to act as instructed by the party leadership,” he said, stressing, “From tomorrow, there will be no confusion. Even now, none exists.”

Breakfast Meeting Sparks Speculation

The morning meeting, which had been the subject of political gossip, was described by Siddaramaiah as a simple breakfast at his home at the suggestion of senior Congress leader K C Venugopal. “Venugopal called my legal adviser, A S Ponnanna, and instructed him to invite Shivakumar for breakfast,” Siddaramaiah explained. He also noted that Shivakumar had previously invited him over for a meal, which he postponed. “We decided to meet at my home for breakfast,” he added.

Siddaramaiah downplayed media reports of tension, attributing them to exaggeration and misinterpretation. “Some confusion has been created by sections of the media,” he said, also addressing legislators’ visits to Delhi. “Some legislators may have gone to Delhi regarding cabinet reshuffle issues. That should not be interpreted differently.”

Focus on Political Planning

Both leaders emphasized long-term political planning, including strategies for the 2028 Assembly elections and forthcoming local body polls, which they described as “critical for the party’s future.” Siddaramaiah stated, “We decided that Congress must return to power in 2028. Just as we worked together in 2023, we have decided to move forward together.”

Response to Opposition

Addressing criticism from the opposition, Siddaramaiah claimed the government is well-prepared to tackle misinformation and political attacks. “BJP and JD(S) spread false allegations and rumours. The deputy chief minister and I will face them effectively. We have developed the necessary strategies,” he said.

He also dismissed the opposition’s threat of a no-confidence motion, pointing out the numerical impossibility. “We have 142 members; they have only 64, and JD(S) has 18. Together, they total 82. This is a failed attempt,” Siddaramaiah said.

High Command’s Role

Insiders indicated that while the party high command had asked Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to resolve the standoff over the chief ministerial post, no definitive decision was reached during Saturday’s meeting. “Both parties stuck to their demands, and no progress was made,” said a senior party leader.

Despite the lack of resolution, both leaders were firm in asserting unity. “There are no differences between us. There are none now, and there will be none in the future,” Siddaramaiah said, signaling a commitment to present a united front in Karnataka politics.