Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reportedly informed his cabinet colleagues of his decision to step down from his post. The announcement was made during a breakfast meeting at his residence, according to official sources. This development has significantly escalated discussions surrounding a potential leadership transition within the state.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was present at the meeting and is widely considered a frontrunner to succeed Siddaramaiah. Pictures released by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) depicted an emotional Shivakumar embracing Siddaramaiah and seeking his blessings, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Party High Command's Role in Succession
Sources indicate that the Congress party's high command had requested Siddaramaiah to make way for a leadership change. In return, he was reportedly offered a central role within the party and a seat in the Rajya Sabha. While reports suggest Siddaramaiah did not immediately accept the central role, some sources believe the direct message from senior party leader Rahul Gandhi may have influenced his decision.
Following the meeting, there were conflicting reports regarding Siddaramaiah seeking an appointment with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. While some CMO sources claimed an appointment was sought, Lok Bhavan sources stated that the Chief Minister had not yet requested time to meet the Governor, who was reportedly out of state for personal reasons.
Speculation and Official Stance
As speculation mounted over the next Chief Minister, AICC general secretary in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, addressed the media. He stated that the Congress had not called a meeting of its legislature party in Karnataka and urged the media to refrain from speculation, emphasizing that no formal decision had been made regarding a leadership change.
The latest developments follow a series of high-level meetings in Delhi earlier in the week, where both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar were summoned by the party. They met with key figures including Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, and party general secretaries K.C. Venugopal and Surjewala. Despite the party's official statement, expectations for a significant leadership shift in Karnataka remain high.