Political activity has intensified in Karnataka amid discussions that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may resign on Thursday. Raj Bhavan sources said Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot is currently not in Bengaluru and has travelled to Mumbai for an official programme.
The development has raised questions over the constitutional process if the governor is not present in the state at the time of resignation. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), however, said all constitutional procedures would be completed according to schedule.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from the post of chief minister on Thursday morning. Before that, he has invited ministers and senior leaders to a breakfast meeting at his official residence. Reports indicate that he may formally step down after the meeting.
Political observers have said the move could be part of a long-running power-sharing arrangement within the Congress leadership. Reports also indicate that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar may become Karnataka’s next chief minister and could take oath on May 30.
Under constitutional and administrative practice in India, a chief minister may submit a resignation even if the governor is not present in the state or capital. In such cases, the resignation may be submitted to the secretary of Raj Bhavan, a special officer or another authorised official designated by the governor.
Constitutional experts said a written resignation submitted to Raj Bhavan is considered sufficient. The resignation is formally accepted after the governor’s return or approval. The CMO stated that constitutional procedures would continue according to schedule irrespective of whether the governor is available.
Discussions regarding a leadership change within the Congress party had been underway for some time. Reports suggest the party leadership has agreed on the name of D K Shivakumar, who is currently deputy chief minister and holds influence within the party organisation.
D K Shivakumar is regarded as a key strategist for the Karnataka Congress. He played a role in the party’s victory in the previous Assembly election.
Discussions have also intensified regarding the possible appointment of three deputy chief ministers in Karnataka’s new political arrangement. According to sources, the Congress may assign responsibilities to leaders from different sections while considering social and regional balance.
Potential names under discussion include G Parameshwara or Priyank Kharge from the Scheduled Caste category, Yathindra Siddaramaiah from the Other Backward Classes category, and M B Patil or Eshwar Khandre from the Lingayat community. From the minority community, K J George, U T Khader or Zameer Ahmed Khan are also being discussed for possible responsibilities.
