Bengaluru: Political activity intensified in Karnataka on Monday amid growing speculation that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah could step down later this week, triggering fresh discussions over a possible leadership change in the ruling Congress.
Sources said Siddaramaiah is likely to meet Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot on May 28 and may submit his resignation. A cabinet meeting is expected to be held before any formal decision is announced.
The reported developments have accelerated internal discussions within the Indian National Congress over the future leadership of the state.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah had informed the party high command that the Congress enjoys the support of 134 MLAs in the Assembly and that more than 100 legislators continue to back his leadership. Despite this, discussions regarding a possible transition are said to be underway.
After returning from Delhi following meetings with senior party leaders, Siddaramaiah reportedly held a late-night meeting with close ministers at his official residence, ‘Kaveri’, in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, senior Congress leaders K. C. Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala are expected to arrive in Bengaluru to oversee the political developments. A meeting of the Congress Legislature Party is also likely to be convened soon.
Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar is being viewed as the leading contender for the chief minister’s post. However, the Congress high command is also said to be exploring the possibility of projecting a new face ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
