Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned from his post on May 28, 2026 [1].

The resignation marks a significant leadership transition within the state's Congress government, shifting the executive role toward Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.

Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation at Lok Bhavan, the Governor's office in Bengaluru [2]. The decision followed a breakfast meeting with his cabinet colleagues [3]. During a subsequent press conference, he confirmed that he turned down an offer for a seat in the Rajya Sabha [4].

Siddaramaiah said he refused the offer because he intends to continue serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Karnataka [4]. He emphasized his commitment to grassroots political engagement and the fight against communalism.

"I will continue in active politics, fight communal forces until my last breath," Siddaramaiah said [5].

Addressing the stability of the party, he said that all MLAs remain united [6]. He further noted that he would remain indebted to the Congress party following his departure from the chief minister's office [7].

While the resignation was finalized on May 28 [1], the transition of power is expected to continue over the coming days. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar is expected to take the oath of office as the new chief minister on June 1, 2026 [8].

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

The resignation of Siddaramaiah and the anticipated ascension of DK Shivakumar represents a strategic shift in the Karnataka Congress leadership. By rejecting a Rajya Sabha seat—which would have moved him to the national legislature in New Delhi—Siddaramaiah maintains his influence within the state assembly. This move suggests a desire to remain a pivotal figure in regional politics rather than transitioning into a more ceremonial or distant legislative role.