Leadership Change Looms in Karnataka Government as Siddaramaiah Seeks Resignation
Potential Leadership Shift in Karnataka
A significant leadership change may be on the horizon for the Karnataka government, as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested an appointment with the Governor. This move comes just a day after the party's high command suggested promoting Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to the chief ministerial position. Reports indicate that Siddaramaiah is likely to submit his resignation today. During a breakfast meeting with cabinet colleagues, he announced his intention to step down, a gathering that also included Shivakumar.
As Siddaramaiah departed for Lok Bhavan, protests and disturbances were reported outside his residence, with demonstrators attempting to block the convoy. After arriving at the chief minister's residence, state minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar informed reporters that Congress leaders are merely adhering to the directives of the party's high command. She stated, 'I have been saying from day one that whatever the high command decides, both I and our chief minister will comply. He is following the instructions given by the high command.'
In another image, Shivakumar, a strong contender for the chief minister's role, is seen seeking Siddaramaiah's blessings by touching his feet. There are indications that Siddaramaiah may announce his resignation during this meeting to pave the way for Shivakumar's ascension. According to sources from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Siddaramaiah has requested a meeting with Governor Thawarchand Gehlot following signals from the party leadership regarding a potential leadership transition. He also mentioned that he would make a statement on this matter on Thursday. However, sources from Lok Bhavan noted that Siddaramaiah has yet to schedule a meeting with the Governor.
Sources indicate that the Governor is currently in his hometown of Indore for personal reasons. Amid rising political activity regarding the new chief minister in the southern state, Congress's Karnataka in-charge general secretary Randeep Surjewala clarified on Wednesday that the party has not convened any meeting of the legislative party and has not made any decisions thus far. He urged the media not to speculate on the issue. The legislative party elects its leader, who naturally becomes the chief ministerial candidate. Surjewala, who arrived on Wednesday, also met with Siddaramaiah and other senior leaders. Reports suggest that the top leadership of Congress has allegedly asked Siddaramaiah to facilitate a leadership change and has offered him a central role in the party along with a Rajya Sabha seat.