Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to tender resignation on Thursday, likely to get Rajya Sabha seat: Sources
According to sources, Siddaramaiah has already consulted his close supporters and conveyed that he would “respect the decision of the high command”.
PTC News Desk: The long-running battle for Karnataka’s top political post appears to have reached a conclusion, with sources indicating that the Congress high command has unanimously backed DK Shivakumar’s claim to the Chief Minister’s chair. Current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reportedly been offered a Rajya Sabha berth along with a broader national responsibility in Delhi. Sources said he has sought some time before making a final decision.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah has already consulted his close supporters and conveyed that he would “respect the decision of the high command”. He may resign from the Chief Minister’s post as early as Wednesday, sources added.
Earlier in the day, the Congress leadership held a marathon six-hour meeting but publicly maintained that the discussions were limited to the upcoming Rajya Sabha and MLC elections in Karnataka. Party General Secretary K. C. Venugopal dismissed speculation surrounding a leadership change, stating briefly, “Discussions were held regarding the Rajya Sabha and MLC elections. There is no truth to any other speculation.”
Sources, however, said Siddaramaiah has called his ministers for a breakfast meeting on Thursday, fuelling speculation that he could formally announce his resignation there. Meanwhile, Congress Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala is expected to arrive in Bengaluru on Wednesday afternoon. If the transition proceeds smoothly, sources believe the new government could be sworn in within a week.
Sources also suggested that the incoming administration may include multiple Deputy Chief Ministers, with several positions likely to be offered to Siddaramaiah loyalists as part of the transition arrangement.