‘I’m ready to resign, final call is with high command’: Siddaramaiah sparks Karnataka power-shift suspense
Karnataka politics entered a dramatic new phase after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reportedly indicated his willingness to step down, leaving the final decision to the Congress high command amid intensifying speculation over a leadership transition in the state.
The latest developments have reignited the long-running power-sharing debate within the Congress, with Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar widely viewed as the frontrunner for the top post — though the party leadership has not yet officially confirmed any change.
Siddaramaiah’s statement fuels resignation buzz
Political circles in Bengaluru were set abuzz after Siddaramaiah reportedly informed close aides and cabinet colleagues that he was prepared to resign if directed by the party leadership.
The Chief Minister is said to have conveyed that the matter now rests entirely with the Congress high command, signalling that internal consultations in Delhi may have reached a decisive stage.
The development comes after weeks of speculation surrounding a possible rotational chief minister arrangement between Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar following Congress’s 2023 Karnataka Assembly victory.
Breakfast meeting intensifies speculation
A key breakfast meeting hosted by Siddaramaiah at his official residence further intensified rumours of an imminent transition.
Several senior ministers attended the meeting, including D K Shivakumar, where Siddaramaiah reportedly informed colleagues about his intention to step down. The meeting was described by insiders as emotional yet cordial, with visible public displays of camaraderie between the two leaders.
Soon after the gathering, celebrations reportedly broke out among Shivakumar supporters in parts of Bengaluru, although Congress leaders continued to maintain that no formal announcement had yet been made.
Congress maintains suspense over CM decision
Despite mounting reports, the Congress officially denied that a final decision had already been taken.
Senior party leaders stated that discussions were still underway and insisted that any leadership change would only be announced after approval from the high command.
This has created an unusual political situation where Siddaramaiah appears willing to vacate the post, but Shivakumar’s elevation remains unofficial.
Is D K Shivakumar finally set for the top post?
D K Shivakumar has long been considered one of Congress’s strongest organizational leaders in Karnataka. Party insiders believe the current developments could finally pave the way for him to assume the chief minister’s role after years of internal negotiations and political balancing.
However, sources indicate that the Congress leadership is carefully evaluating:
- Cabinet reshuffle implications
- Regional caste equations
- 2028 electoral strategy
- Stability of the government
- Balancing Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar factions
Reports suggest multiple deputy CM formulas and power-sharing arrangements are also being discussed behind closed doors.
Latest developments in Karnataka CM row
- Siddaramaiah has reportedly expressed readiness to resign if instructed by the Congress leadership.
- D K Shivakumar remains the strongest contender for the CM post, but no official declaration has been made yet.
- Congress high command is holding consultations to avoid factional tensions within the Karnataka unit.
- Supporters of Shivakumar have already begun celebrating in anticipation of a leadership change.
- Political observers believe the final announcement could come after another round of discussions in Delhi.
The unfolding developments have turned Karnataka into the Centre of national political attention, with the Congress leadership now facing the challenge of ensuring a smooth transition without triggering internal unrest.
