Siddaramaiah Likely to Step Down as Karnataka CM, D.K. Shivakumar Set to Take Over

Political developments in Karnataka gathered pace on Thursday amid strong indications that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may soon resign, paving the way for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to take charge of the state government. Speculation intensified after a key breakfast meeting attended by senior Congress leaders and cabinet ministers was held at the Chief Minister’s official residence in Bengaluru.
According to party sources, Siddaramaiah reportedly informed close associates and ministers during the meeting about his decision to step down. The move is being viewed as part of a long-discussed leadership transition within the Karnataka Congress. Although the party leadership has not yet made any official announcement, developments throughout the day suggested that a formal change in leadership could take place soon.
The meeting drew attention after visuals emerged showing cordial interactions between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. In one widely discussed moment, Shivakumar was seen touching Siddaramaiah’s feet and embracing him, signaling unity within the party despite months of speculation surrounding a power-sharing arrangement between the two senior leaders.
Senior Congress leaders in Delhi are believed to have played a major role in facilitating the transition. Reports indicated that Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala held several rounds of discussions with both leaders in recent weeks to ensure a smooth leadership change without internal conflict.
Supporters of Shivakumar gathered outside his residence in Bengaluru soon after reports of Siddaramaiah’s possible resignation surfaced. Celebrations began in anticipation of Shivakumar becoming the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. Party workers described the expected transition as a significant moment for the Congress government, which came to power in the state after a decisive electoral victory in 2023.
Siddaramaiah, a veteran Congress leader, has been credited with implementing several welfare-oriented schemes and strengthening support among backward classes, minorities, and rural voters. Shivakumar, known for his organizational skills and influence within the party, played a crucial role in rebuilding the Congress in Karnataka and securing its return to power.