What’s Next for Siddaramaiah After Resigning as Karnataka Chief Minister?
Siddaramaiah's Strategic Meeting with Rahul Gandhi
New Delhi: Following his resignation as Karnataka's chief minister, Congress leader Siddaramaiah met with Rahul Gandhi at Sonia Gandhi's residence on Friday morning, accompanied by his son Yathindra.
This meeting holds importance as Siddaramaiah plans to outline his future with the Congress leadership, especially after he turned down a Rajya Sabha position.
He has expressed a desire to stay in Karnataka rather than take on a central role, which was suggested by the party's high command.
Sources indicate that Siddaramaiah's meeting was solely with Rahul Gandhi, as Sonia Gandhi was absent.
During their discussion, Siddaramaiah expressed gratitude to Rahul Gandhi for the opportunity to serve the state and confirmed his resignation from the chief minister's role as requested.
Additionally, he is expected to advocate for a position for his son and loyal supporters in the upcoming Karnataka Cabinet, potentially including the deputy chief minister role.
Later, Siddaramaiah also conferred with Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge regarding the formation of the new government in Karnataka and his future within the party.
Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala, who attended the hour-long meeting with Rahul Gandhi, described it as a very positive interaction, noting that various issues were discussed.
When asked about the transition in Karnataka, he assured, "Absolutely. There is no hurdle in the smooth transition of power in the state."
Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot officially accepted Siddaramaiah's resignation on Thursday.
Sources suggest that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who is poised to succeed Siddaramaiah, will hold separate discussions with Congress general secretary K C Venugopal regarding government formation.
The Congress party is also planning to reorganize its structure in Karnataka, with discussions scheduled for Friday.
A Congress Legislature Party meeting is anticipated on Saturday to elect the new chief minister.
Siddaramaiah, a two-time chief minister, joined the Congress in 2006 after leaving the JD(S).