From the rapid expansion of the metro network and the return of major sporting events to delayed civic elections and unresolved questions within the government over leadership, the upcoming year may emerge as a watershed moment when governance is judged less by intent and more by execution. The government has promised expansion of the Metro network in Bengaluru is expected to be a significant talking point in the upcoming year, apart from higher levels of scrutiny on road infrastructure in the state. (HT PHOTO) For the Congress government led by chief minister Siddaramaiah, 2026 marks the midpoint of its tenure. With the next assembly election scheduled for 2028, the political focus is expected to move from rolling out welfare guarantees to defending how those commitments have been funded and delivered. At the same time, speculation around leadership arrangements within the Congress is expected to continue through the year. While no formal change is assured, internal power sharing discussions are likely to remain part of the political backdrop, framed publicly as organisational matters rather than responses …