Congress MLA Sparks Row With “Balatkaar–Chamatkaar” Remark

• Karnataka MLA Iqbal Hussain triggers outrage with offensive comparison amid leadership tussle
• Remark follows Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s dismissal of talk on change of CM
• Power struggle between Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar resurfaces despite party interventions
• Congress grapples with internal dissent as BJP watches the crisis unfold

GG News Bureau
Bengaluru, 11th Dec: Karnataka Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain ignited a political firestorm on Thursday after using a crude “balatkaar–chamatkaar” comparison while commenting on the ongoing leadership struggle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Hussain, who has publicly supported Shivakumar’s claim to the top post, complained that his faction is unfairly targeted for raising leadership issues. His remark came shortly after Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister’s son, asserted that the Congress high command had made it clear there would be no change of leadership at present, effectively shutting down speculation.

Frustrated by the party’s internal disciplinary actions, Hussain said that any comment on leadership immediately invites notices but emphasised that no leader can override the Congress high command. He also criticised Yathindra Siddaramaiah, saying he should “understand the circumstances before commenting.”

The long-running power tussle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar — simmering since the 2023 Assembly victory — has repeatedly resurfaced, forcing senior party leaders to intervene. Despite public displays of unity, internal disagreements persist over the timing of a potential transition, with sources indicating that negotiations continue behind the scenes.

Meanwhile, the BJP is monitoring the unfolding crisis, though lacking the numbers to challenge the ruling party through a no-confidence motion. The latest controversy has added fresh strain to the Congress’ efforts to project stability in Karnataka.