In a recent incident that has intensified the ongoing power struggle within Karnataka’s Congress party, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge reprimanded party workers for chanting “DK, DK” in support of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during an event. The incident underscores the deepening rift between Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, raising questions about the party’s internal dynamics and leadership cohesion.
**The Incident: A Clash of Allegiances**
The event in question took place in Bengaluru, where Congress workers gathered to discuss party matters. As Shivakumar addressed the gathering, a group of party workers began chanting “DK, DK,” expressing their support for him. This spontaneous display of allegiance disrupted the proceedings and drew immediate attention.
Mallikarjun Kharge, who was present at the event, responded sharply to the chants. He admonished the workers, urging them to “keep quiet” and labeling their actions as “useless.” Kharge’s reprimand highlights the delicate balance he seeks to maintain within the party, aiming to prevent public displays of factionalism that could undermine the party’s unity. ([newsbytesapp.com](https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/keep-quiet-kharge-scolds-useless-congress-workers-shouting-dk-dk/story?utm_source=openai))
**Contextualizing the Power Struggle**
The incident is not an isolated event but part of a broader power struggle within Karnataka’s Congress party. D.K. Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah, both influential leaders, have been at odds over the Chief Minister’s position. Shivakumar’s supporters have been vocal about his leadership capabilities, while Siddaramaiah’s camp emphasizes his experience and tenure as Chief Minister.
In May 2026, both leaders met Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, and AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal in Delhi to discuss the leadership issue. Reports suggest that the Congress leadership has asked Siddaramaiah to step down to resolve the prolonged tussle between him and his deputy. ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2026/May/26/congress-dismisses-karnataka-leadership-change-buzz-after-high-level-delhi-meeting?utm_source=openai))
**Kharge’s Leadership Amidst Turmoil**
As the party president, Mallikarjun Kharge has been at the center of efforts to resolve the leadership crisis. In May 2026, he acknowledged the ongoing tug-of-war between Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah, stating, “Sonia (Gandhi), Rahul (Gandhi), and I will fix it…” This statement underscored the party’s commitment to finding a resolution and maintaining unity. ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2026/May/26/congress-dismisses-karnataka-leadership-change-buzz-after-high-level-delhi-meeting?utm_source=openai))
However, Kharge has also been cautious in his public statements. In May 2026, when questioned about the Chief Minister tussle, he avoided providing a direct answer, instead focusing on other party matters. This approach reflects his strategic efforts to manage the situation without exacerbating internal conflicts.
**Implications for Karnataka’s Political Landscape**
The recent incident and the ongoing power struggle have significant implications for Karnataka’s political landscape. The Congress party’s internal discord could impact its performance in upcoming elections and its ability to effectively govern the state. The leadership tussle between Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah has not only divided party workers but also attracted public attention, potentially influencing voter perceptions.
Moreover, the situation has provided the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with opportunities to critique the Congress party’s internal issues. For instance, in August 2025, after Shivakumar recited the RSS anthem in the assembly, BJP leaders criticized the Congress for its internal contradictions, questioning the party’s stance on national issues.
**Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Discipline**
The incident where Mallikarjun Kharge reprimanded Congress workers for chanting “DK, DK” serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Karnataka’s Congress party. It underscores the need for unity, discipline, and a collective focus on the party’s objectives. As the party navigates this internal turmoil, the leadership’s ability to manage dissent and foster cohesion will be crucial in determining its future trajectory in Karnataka’s political arena.
