Siddaramaiah steps down amid major Karnataka political transition
Veteran Congress leader Siddaramaiah resigned from the post of Karnataka Chief Minister on Thursday following days of intense political activity and internal consultations within the Congress party.
The resignation was submitted at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Since Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot was out of the city, the resignation letter was handed over to the Governor’s office for formal processing.
Breakfast meeting held before resignation announcement
Before stepping down, Siddaramaiah reportedly met cabinet colleagues during a breakfast meeting at his residence where he informed ministers about his decision. The meeting came amid mounting speculation regarding a leadership transition in Karnataka and growing discussions within the ruling party.
Political sources indicated that the Congress leadership had been engaged in continuous consultations over the future leadership structure in the state over the past several days.
Siddaramaiah says he respected party leadership decision
Speaking after submitting his resignation, Siddaramaiah stated that he chose to step aside after directions from the party high command and emphasised that the interests of Karnataka remained his top priority.
He also revealed that he had been offered a Rajya Sabha opportunity but decided against moving to national politics, saying he wished to continue serving the people of Karnataka directly after being elected for a full term.
The senior leader thanked Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for giving him the opportunity to lead the state government.
Governor’s office confirms receipt of resignation
Officials at Raj Bhavan confirmed that Siddaramaiah’s resignation letter had been received. However, formal acceptance is expected only after the Governor returns and completes constitutional procedures linked to the transition.
The Congress government continues to hold a majority in the Karnataka Assembly, reducing the likelihood of immediate political instability despite the leadership change.
High-level Congress discussions shaped transition
The resignation follows a series of high-level meetings held in Delhi involving Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar and senior Congress leadership. Discussions reportedly focused on leadership restructuring and the party’s long-term political strategy in Karnataka.
Top Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, KC Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala, were part of the consultations that ultimately shaped the transition plan.
