After 1999 flashback, Kharge emerges as possibleCM face amid Siddaramaiah-DKS fact-off
Kharge
's recent remarks recalling how he was denied the CM's post in 1999 despite support of the majority in the party has raised a key question: Is the veteran Dalit functionary positioning himself as a fallback Karnataka CM candidate if the current deadlock between chief minister
Siddaramaiah
and his deputy,
DK Shivakumar
, continues?
The comment, seen by many as a reminder of both his past contribution and present relevance, has added a new layer to the ongoing political churn in the state.
With talk of a possible mid-term CM change gaining traction and no clarity yet on a succession plan, Congress sources say Kharge could emerge as a compromise candidate acceptable to multiple factions.
"Kharge has been aspiring for long to become CM," said a senior Congress functionary. "Even though he was elevated to the highest position (AICC chief) in the party, he still regrets missing out on opportunities not just in 1999 but at other times as well when Congress governed the state.
Though he was eligible for the post, the entry of Ahinda leader Siddaramaiah kept him at bay."
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Kharge's becoming CM could tick several boxes. It could fulfil a long-standing demand for a Dalit CM in Karnataka, where the Scheduled Caste population stands at 18% as per the 2011 Census. Some party strategists believe the move could also help unite factions in the state unit and send a strong political message ahead of the 2028 assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
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Political observers suggest Kharge's public expression of regret is more than just an emotional outpouring. For many, it suggests a subtle signal to the party's central leadership, especially in the context of the leadership tussle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar that appears no closer to a resolution.
However, not everyone is buying the idea. "C Rajagopalachari became CM of Madras after serving as governor general, but chief ministership after being AICC president may not be desirable.
However, in politics, nothing can be ruled out," said Brijesh Kalappa, senior Congress functionary. "While Kengal Hanumanthaiah became railway minister after his CM stint, Kharge has already served as railway minister. Though chief ministership has eluded Kharge so far, as AICC president, he controls the fortunes of several CMs.
"
Sandeep Shastri, psephologist, suggested it would be a demotion of sorts. "Kharge has gone far beyond the role [of CM] after becoming party president and leader of opposition in both Lok and Rajya Sabha," said Shastri.
"What he expressed over the weekend is deep anguish at not having been able to make it to the CM post a quarter century ago. Much political water has flown under the bridge since then."
Political analyst Harish Ramaswamy from North Karnataka believes such a move would be a step backward.
"Given Kharge's current status, it would be unwise to look towards becoming CM," said Ramaswamy. "He should let go of the past and look to win the forthcoming Parliament elections.
No doubt, Kharge is a tall leader among Scheduled Castes. However, his leadership as Congress president is much more valuable, besides being pan-India. Aiming to become Prime Minister would be more suitable than positioning himself to be CM.
This will be a misguided preference, given his current disposition, both in the party and in Parliament."
While Kharge has not openly staked claim to the CM post, the timing of his remarks — and the silence it has drawn from the party's top brass — has only fuelled further chatter. Whether it's a reminder of a missed opportunity or a signal of future intent, only time will tell.
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