Karnataka Political Turmoil: Siddaramaiah Set to Resign Amid Leadership Change

Leadership Change in Karnataka Politics

On Thursday, May 28, significant developments unfolded in Karnataka's political landscape as indications of a leadership change within the three-year-old Congress government emerged. Reports suggest that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to resign and meet with Congress leadership and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi today. There are discussions that the party leadership has offered him a Rajya Sabha seat to transition into national politics, a proposal he may decline as he reportedly has no interest in moving to central politics.

Siddaramaiah's Meeting with Rahul Gandhi

According to sources, after submitting his resignation, Siddaramaiah plans to travel to New Delhi and has requested a meeting with Rahul Gandhi. It is reported that he wishes to personally thank Gandhi for the discussions regarding leadership changes within the Congress party. During this meeting, he may also politely decline the offer for the Rajya Sabha seat.

Resignation and New Government Formation

Following a breakfast meeting with his cabinet colleagues, Siddaramaiah is expected to meet Governor Thawarchand Gehlot to submit his resignation. This comes after the party leadership allegedly requested him to step down in favor of his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar. The new government is anticipated to take the oath on May 30 (Saturday).

Congress Proposes Rajya Sabha Seat to Siddaramaiah

The Congress leadership has reportedly urged Siddaramaiah to pave the way for a leadership transition in the state and has proposed a central role within the party along with a Rajya Sabha seat. Some sources indicate that Siddaramaiah's decision to resign may have been influenced by a direct message from party leader Rahul Gandhi. The Chief Minister has previously stated that he would resign if the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha requested him to do so.

Meetings at Congress Headquarters

On Tuesday, the party summoned Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to Delhi, where they engaged in a series of meetings at the Congress headquarters with Rahul Gandhi, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, and Surjewala.