In a major shift in Karnataka politics, Siddaramaiah formally resigned as the Chief Minister on Thursday, May 28, 2026, ending months of speculation regarding a leadership change. This highly anticipated transition paves the way for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to take over the top post in the state.
Breakfast Meeting and Displays of Unit
The day began with a crucial breakfast meeting hosted at Siddaramaiah’s official residence, ‘Kaveri’, where he informed his cabinet colleagues of his decision to step down as per the Congress high command’s directives.
The meeting was marked by strong displays of unity between the two political heavyweights:
- D.K. Shivakumar was seen touching Siddaramaiah’s feet, a gesture viewed as a symbolic handover.
- The two leaders shared a warm embrace in front of other gathered ministers.
- The Karnataka Congress shared images of the embrace on social media with the caption, “Unity is our strength”.
- Karnataka Minister H.K. Patil confirmed the unanimous decision, stating, “There is no point of dissent anywhere” and that Shivakumar would become the new Chief Minister.
What is Next for Siddaramaiah?
During a press conference, Siddaramaiah confirmed his intention to remain active in state politics, declining rumors of a move to the Rajya Sabha or a national role. His native village of Siddaramai witnessed gloom and disappointment among residents who wished to see him complete his full five-year term.
Following the resignation, Siddaramaiah boarded a special flight to New Delhi to meet with Rahul Gandhi and the party high command to discuss the new cabinet. However, the flight, which was also carrying Congress state in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala, was diverted to Jaipur due to bad weather. The meeting with Rahul Gandhi has now been postponed to Friday morning.
The Road Ahead for D.K. Shivakumar
With the swearing-in of the new Chief Minister likely to happen on Saturday, celebrations have already erupted outside D.K. Shivakumar’s residence in Bengaluru. However, the new administration faces several immediate challenges.
Forming a New Cabinet: Former Minister Tanveer Sait noted that a completely new cabinet must be constituted, prompting intense anticipation for ministerial berths.
Balancing Factions: Shivakumar will need to carefully manage relationships with Siddaramaiah’s loyalists to prevent the emergence of an alternative power center
Managing Caste Dynamics: Various groups are already making demands; the Jagatika Lingayat Mahasabha has urged the high command to make M.B. Patil the Chief Minister, while supporters in Kalaburagi are demanding a Deputy CM post for Priyank Kharge.
