New Delhi, July 26, 2025 — A heated clash erupted between supporters of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi late Friday night. The altercation, which allegedly turned physical, has triggered a formal probe ordered by the Chief Minister himself.
🔹 Cause of the Clash
Sources from the Karnataka Congress delegation confirmed that the altercation broke out over protocol and accommodation arrangements at Karnataka Bhavan, where both leaders had scheduled overlapping meetings with party workers and bureaucrats.
Aides reportedly exchanged sharp words, which soon escalated into a physical confrontation, drawing attention from senior Congress leaders present at the venue.
🔹 Video Evidence Surfaces
Short video clips showing supporters of both leaders involved in a verbal and physical spat began circulating on social media platforms early Saturday. In the footage, several individuals can be seen pushing and shouting at each other inside the government guest house compound.
Police were not immediately involved, as the situation was brought under control by Karnataka officials on site.
🔹 Siddaramaiah Orders Internal Probe
Reacting to the public fallout, CM Siddaramaiah expressed displeasure over the “unbecoming conduct” of aides representing the state in the national capital. He has directed senior officials to conduct an internal inquiry and submit a report within 48 hours.
He also stated that any individual found responsible for indiscipline would face immediate suspension from duty or party-related roles.
🔹 DK Shivakumar Yet to Comment
While DK Shivakumar has not issued an official statement, sources close to him claim that his team was “provoked” over being denied meeting access and lodging priority at Karnataka Bhavan.
Congress insiders have admitted the incident reflects ongoing tensions within the Karnataka leadership, even as the state government completes over a year in office.
🔹 Political Fallout Expected
The BJP and JD(S) are expected to raise this issue both in Karnataka Assembly and during upcoming local body elections, portraying it as a failure of internal discipline within the ruling Congress. Meanwhile, party high command in Delhi has reportedly taken note and is likely to intervene.
🔹 Karnataka Bhavan Incident Timeline:
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July 25, 2025 – 9:00 PM: Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar aides arrive for meetings
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9:30 PM: Verbal dispute over scheduling turns into heated exchange
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10:00 PM: Physical scuffle breaks out in presence of staff and media
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10:30 PM: Officials intervene and separate both factions
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July 26, 2025 – Morning: CM Siddaramaiah orders internal inquiry
🔹 Reactions from Party Members
Senior Congress leaders have called the incident “unfortunate” and stressed the need for unity. A spokesperson stated, “Karnataka Bhavan represents the dignity of the state; such behavior is unacceptable.”
Party workers from both factions have been instructed to refrain from escalating the matter in public.
