Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned from his post on Wednesday, following a request from the Congress party leadership. He submitted his resignation letter at the Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru.
With Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot away in his home state, the resignation was received by the Governor’s Special Secretary, Prabhu Shankar, according to reports.
The development comes amid long-running speculation over leadership change within the Congress government that came to power in the 2023 Assembly elections, winning 135 seats under state party chief DK Shivakumar’s leadership. Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar had been seen as contenders for the top post, with Shivakumar later made Deputy Chief Minister.
Party leaders held extended discussions in Delhi with both leaders, including consultations involving Rahul Gandhi. After these talks, Siddaramaiah agreed to step aside.
A meeting of Congress MLAs is scheduled for Wednesday evening to choose the new leader. DK Shivakumar is widely expected to be selected, and celebrations have been reported in parts of Bengaluru South district, including Ramanagara, Kanakapura, Channapatna and Magadi.
