Siddaramaiah Resigns As Karnataka CM, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar Likely To Take Over

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned from his post on Thursday, bringing an end to months of speculation over a leadership change within the ruling Congress government. The resignation is expected to pave the way for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to assume the top post in the state. Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru after informing cabinet colleagues of his decision during a breakfast meeting held at his official residence earlier in the day. Senior Congress leaders and ministers, including Shivakumar, attended the meeting.

The Congress leadership change in Karnataka follows a prolonged internal power-sharing debate between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, both key figures behind the party’s victory in the 2023 Assembly elections. Siddaramaiah Resigns As Karnataka CM, Governor Yet To Accept Resignation.

Although Siddaramaiah had repeatedly maintained publicly that he would complete a full term as chief minister, reports indicated that the Congress high command eventually decided in favour of a transition. Speaking after stepping down, Siddaramaiah said he was following the instructions of the party leadership.

In a press interaction, Siddaramaiah said, “I have given my resignation from the post of chief minister,” while also thanking Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for the opportunity to lead the state. DK Shivakumar Touches Siddaramaiah's Feet, Seeks His Blessings at Breakfast Meeting As Karnataka Braces for Imminent Leadership Transition (See Pics).

DK Shivakumar Emerges as Frontrunner

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is widely expected to be elected as the next leader of the Congress Legislature Party, though the party had not officially announced the decision at the time of reporting.

Several Karnataka Congress leaders indicated that Shivakumar’s elevation had the backing of the central leadership. State minister H.K. Patil said after the breakfast meeting that Siddaramaiah wanted Shivakumar to take over as chief minister. The Congress is expected to hold consultations with MLAs and senior leaders before formally announcing the new chief minister.

Siddaramaiah Rejects Rajya Sabha Offer

Following his resignation, Siddaramaiah revealed that he had declined an offer to move to the Rajya Sabha, stating that he wished to continue serving as an MLA in Karnataka.

The outgoing chief minister also dismissed allegations by opposition parties regarding the state’s financial management and defended his government’s welfare programmes and fiscal policies.

In an emotional statement, Siddaramaiah said he remained satisfied with his political journey and his work for disadvantaged communities in the state.

Political Significance of the Transition

Siddaramaiah’s resignation marks a major political transition in Karnataka and a critical moment for the Congress ahead of future electoral battles. The leadership change is also being closely watched nationally as the party attempts to balance regional leadership ambitions with organisational unity.

Siddaramaiah, one of the Congress party’s most prominent OBC leaders, served two terms as Karnataka chief minister and was credited with implementing several welfare-focused schemes during his tenure.

The party is expected to complete the formal transition process in the coming days, with Shivakumar likely to stake claim to form the government after consultations with the Congress high command.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 28, 2026 07:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).