Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's Lighthearted Exchange with Reporter Over Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Preferences Amid Leadership Discussions

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah shared an amusing exchange with reporters on Tuesday following a breakfast meeting at Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's residence amid ongoing political discussions in the state.

When asked about the culinary differences between their recent meals, Siddaramaiah explained, "At his house, we had non-vegetarian food, while at my residence, it was purely vegetarian breakfast."

The Chief Minister elaborated that despite Shivakumar being vegetarian while he himself prefers non-vegetarian cuisine, he had arranged vegetarian options at his own home. "I requested DK to bring country chicken from the village, which is of superior and authentic quality," he added.

During the interaction, Siddaramaiah inquired if one reporter consumed non-vegetarian food. When she replied, "No, I'm a pure vegetarian," he playfully questioned, "What does 'pure' mean? Don't you eat eggs?" Upon learning she avoided eggs as well, he jokingly remarked, "Then it's of no use."

The breakfast at Siddaramaiah's residence featured 'nati koli' fry, vada, and pongal, among other dishes. Their previous gathering reportedly included idli, upma, and kesari baat (a semolina-based breakfast dessert).

Recent speculation has emerged regarding potential leadership changes in Karnataka as the Congress government completed half its five-year term last month. Supporters of Shivakumar have advocated for his elevation to the Chief Minister position.

Following the 2023 Karnataka assembly election, intense competition existed between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the Chief Minister's role. Congress leadership ultimately convinced Shivakumar to accept the Deputy Chief Minister position. Some reports suggested an arrangement based on a "rotational chief minister formula" whereby Shivakumar would assume leadership after two-and-a-half years, though these claims were dismissed by both leaders and senior party members.

On Tuesday, Siddaramaiah clarified the situation, stating, "We have no differences. This understanding will always remain. DK Shivakumar and I are united; we administer the government together. In the future also we will run the government unitedly."

Regarding the leadership question, he emphasized that both would respect the decision of the party's high command. "So far, there is no communication from the high command on the timeline for any decision on this matter," he noted.

Siddaramaiah added, "If they summon us, we will certainly meet with them."