Siddaramaiah resigned as the Chief Minister of Karnataka on May 28, 2026 [1], paving the way for DK Shivakumar to lead the state.

The transition marks a significant shift in power within the Karnataka Congress, ensuring the party's internal leadership agenda continues under new management.

Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation at the Governor’s office in Lok Bhavan, Bengaluru [2]. While some reports indicated the resignation was scheduled for 3 p.m. [3], other accounts noted the submission occurred earlier in the day [1]. Following the filing, the outgoing leader held a joint press conference at his official residence.

HK Patil said DK Shivakumar would be the next Chief Minister [4]. While some reports suggest Shivakumar will take over immediately following the resignation [1], other sources indicate he is likely to take the oath of office on June 1, 2026 [5].

Siddaramaiah confirmed he will remain active in the political sphere. "I will continue in active politics, fight communal forces until my last breath," Siddaramaiah said [6].

During the transition process, the outgoing leader reportedly declined an offer to move to the upper house of Parliament. Siddaramaiah said he said no to a Rajya Sabha offer [7].

Shivakumar, who previously served as Deputy Chief Minister, is expected to maintain the current government's policy trajectory as he prepares to assume the top executive role in the state.

“"I will continue in active politics, fight communal forces until my last breath."”

This leadership change represents a choreographed succession within the Karnataka Congress to balance internal power dynamics. By stepping down and declining a Rajya Sabha seat, Siddaramaiah maintains his presence in active state politics while allowing DK Shivakumar to consolidate executive authority, potentially stabilizing the party's regional influence ahead of future electoral cycles.