Political activity intensified in Karnataka after senior Congress leaders hinted at a possible leadership transition
May 28, 2026: Siddaramaiah is likely to resign from the post of Karnataka chief minister at 3 pm on Thursday, according to leaders familiar with the developments. The speculation gained momentum after Siddaramaiah held a crucial breakfast meeting with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and senior cabinet ministers at his official residence in Bengaluru. Sources also indicated that the chief minister had sought an appointment with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot later in the day, fuelling expectations of a formal resignation.
Senior Congress MLA Ashok K Pattan told reporters there was a “100 per cent possibility” of Shivakumar becoming the next chief minister, while veteran leader R V Deshpande claimed Siddaramaiah had already decided to step down. However, the Congress leadership has not officially confirmed any leadership change. Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala stated on Wednesday that no legislature party meeting had been called and no final decision had been taken regarding the Karnataka leadership issue.
Speculation around a power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar has continued since the Congress formed the government in Karnataka after the 2023 Assembly elections. The buzz intensified after both leaders recently met senior Congress figures, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, in New Delhi. Supporters of Shivakumar gathered outside his Bengaluru residence on Thursday, while celebrations were reported in parts of the state amid growing expectations of a leadership transition.