Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned from his position on May 28, 2026 [1].
The resignation triggers a leadership transition in the state, with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expected to assume the role of Chief Minister.
Earlier on Thursday morning, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar met for breakfast at Lok Bhavan, the official residence of the Chief Minister in Bengaluru [1], [2]. The meeting was described as their last together in this capacity before the formal change in power [1], [3].
Siddaramaiah expressed his commitment to his political ideology and the legal framework of the country during the transition. "Constitution is my religion," Siddaramaiah said [1].
Despite stepping down from the top executive post, the outgoing leader indicated that he does not intend to retire from public life. He said that he will continue in active politics and fight communal forces until his last breath [2].
Reports indicated that Siddaramaiah was offered a seat in the Rajya Sabha as part of the transition process. However, he declined the position to remain focused on state-level engagement. "I have refused the Rajya Sabha offer and will continue to serve the people of Karnataka," Siddaramaiah said [3].
The transition follows a period of internal party coordination within the Congress party to ensure a stable handover of power. The breakfast meeting served as a public display of bonhomie between the two leaders as Shivakumar prepares to take over the administration [3].
“Constitution is my religion.”
The resignation of Siddaramaiah and the anticipated ascent of D.K. Shivakumar marks a pivotal shift in Karnataka's political landscape. By refusing a Rajya Sabha seat, Siddaramaiah signals his intent to remain a potent force in state politics rather than moving to national legislation, potentially creating a dual power center within the state's Congress leadership.
