The Karnataka government has set its 2026-27 budget session from March 6 to 27, coinciding with ongoing speculation about a possible power shift between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar. Siddaramaiah will present the budget on the opening day. Party leaders urge restraint amid public comments on the issue.
The Karnataka Cabinet approved the schedule for the 2026-27 Budget session on Thursday, fixing it from March 6 to March 27 with 14 sitting days, excluding holidays. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who holds the Finance portfolio, is set to present his 17th budget on March 6.
This announcement comes as the ruling Congress party marks the halfway point of its five-year term, reached on November 20, 2025. Speculation has intensified regarding a potential leadership change, linked to a reported power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar formed in 2023.
Shivakumar, returning from meetings with senior Congress leaders in New Delhi including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, expressed optimism. He stated, “I always live with hope and confidence. There will always be fruit for the effort, whether it is for you, for me, or for anyone else. Where there is effort, there is fruit; where there is devotion, there is God.” When asked about timing, he replied, “Let’s talk about that some other time.” On reports of a February 17 meeting in Delhi, he said, “I don’t know. Let’s see. Time will answer everything.”
The two leaders attended the International Dam Safety Conference-2026 together but did not interact. Siddaramaiah emphasized that both he and Shivakumar should follow the Congress high command's decision on any change.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara called for leaders to stop public remarks, noting, “Our AICC President has gone to the extent of saying that everyone should keep their mouth shut.” He added that the party should focus on administration and development, expressing hope that the high command would act appropriately.
Tensions rose after Siddaramaiah's son Yathindra stated his father would complete the full term, while Shivakumar's supporters claim backing from many legislators for their leader's elevation. Shivakumar also addressed reports of a legislators' tour to Australia and New Zealand, saying he was unaware and would inquire.
