The smooth transfer of power in Karnataka has been hailed as a rare display of discipline in contemporary Indian politics. A chief minister resigned without public rebellion, his long-time rival was unanimously elected successor, and the ruling party projected unity at every stage of the transition. Yet beneath the choreography lies a more complicated question: has Karnataka witnessed a genuine transfer of power, or merely a transfer of office?

The elevation of D.K. Shivakumar to the chief minister’s post marks the culmination of a political ambition that has shaped Karnataka Congress politics for years. As the party’s most influential organiser and one of its most formidable political operators, Mr Shivakumar can legitimately claim to have earned the position. At the same time, the manner in which Mr Siddaramaiah departed office may prove equally significant. For a leader known throughout his career for resisting attempts to curtail his authority, Mr Siddaramaiah’s acceptance of the party leadership’s decision was striking. He neither mobilised supporters nor challenged the transition.

Instead, he publicly endorsed his successor and emphasised loyalty to the party. Such conduct has enhanced rather than diminished his stature. In politics, voluntary........

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