Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned on Thursday, May 28, 2026, clearing the way for Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to lead the state [1].
The transition ends a three-year leadership dispute between the two officials [1]. It represents a significant shift in the state's political hierarchy as the Congress party moves to resolve internal friction.
Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation to the Governor's office in Bengaluru [3]. The decision followed a breakfast meeting at his residence in Bengaluru and came after directions from the Congress high command [2, 5].
"I had said time and again that I will resign whenever high command tells me," Siddaramaiah said [2].
The outgoing leader emphasized his lack of attachment to the position during the transition. "Never hankered after money or power," Siddaramaiah said [3].
Siddaramaiah's departure follows years of tension regarding the succession of the chief minister's office. "I have kept my word," Siddaramaiah said [4].
DK Shivakumar is designated as the next chief minister [1]. The appointment follows the formal submission of the resignation on May 28, 2026 [3].
“"I had said time and again that I will resign whenever high command tells me."”
The resignation of Siddaramaiah resolves a prolonged power struggle within the Karnataka Congress, shifting the state's executive authority to DK Shivakumar. By adhering to the high command's directives, the party aims to stabilize its leadership structure and eliminate internal discord that has persisted for three years.
