Political activity in Karnataka has intensified amid speculation over the chief ministerial position, with media reports indicating that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may resign on Thursday, May 28.
Karnataka politics has once again drawn national attention as speculation over a leadership change in the state has gained momentum. A proposed breakfast meeting between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has intensified political discussions, with indications that the meeting may signal developments related to the state government and the future of the Congress leadership.
According to sources, D. K. Shivakumar is expected to attend the meeting scheduled for the morning of May 28 at the Chief Minister’s official residence, ‘Kaveri’. Political analysts believe the Congress leadership may take a significant decision while considering the balance of power in Karnataka and upcoming Assembly elections.
In recent days, discussions have intensified over the possibility of Siddaramaiah stepping down as Chief Minister. Although there has been no official confirmation from the Congress, discussions regarding a leadership change have continued within the party. Reports indicate that the Congress high command held deliberations in recent meetings in Delhi regarding the future of the state leadership. As part of these discussions, Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders reportedly met Siddaramaiah.
According to political sources, Rahul Gandhi assured Siddaramaiah that his role within the party and national politics would not diminish even if he relinquishes the chief ministerial position. The Congress leadership is said to view him as an important OBC face at the national level.
Discussions regarding power-sharing within the Karnataka Congress have continued for a long time. Since the Congress victory in the 2023 Assembly elections, it has been suggested that efforts were made within the party to maintain leadership balance regarding the chief ministerial position. D. K. Shivakumar’s name has once again emerged as a potential contender for the post of Chief Minister.
Shivakumar is currently in Delhi and, according to the scheduled programme, is expected to arrive in Bengaluru on Thursday morning and directly attend the breakfast meeting. Political observers say that if a leadership change takes place, the Congress may present it as part of its electoral and organisational strategy.
A lengthy meeting regarding possible changes in the Karnataka Congress was held on Tuesday at Indira Bhavan, the headquarters of the Indian National Congress, in New Delhi. Several senior leaders attended the meeting. Along with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and D. K. Shivakumar, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, party General Secretary K. C. Venugopal, and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala were present. The primary objective of the meeting was said to be maintaining political stability in the state and preparing future strategy.
