The suspense over the Karnataka Chief Minister's post after the Congress's emphatic victory last week appears headed towards a conclusion, with party chief Mallikarjun Kharge meeting the two contenders -- DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah -- this evening. The meetings, though, were inconclusive. Mr Kharge is trying to strike a balance and another round of meeting will be held tomorrow, sources said.
Mr Shivakumar is locked in an intense power struggle with Mr Siddaramaiah over who will lead the government, after the Congress stormed to power by winning 135 seats in the May 10 elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly.
Amid speculations about the number of MLAs supporting him and Mr Siddaramaiah for the post, Mr Shivakumar on Monday said his strength is 135, as it was under his leadership, the party won 135 seats.
