Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from his post on Thursday, May 2, 2026 [1].
A leadership transition in India's southern state would signal a major shift in the Congress party's regional power structure. If the change occurs, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is positioned to take over the role [2].
According to a senior state legislator, the resignation aligns with a prior commitment made to the party high-command [3]. Other reports suggest the move is part of a rotational formula designed to manage leadership transitions within the state's government [4]. Some sources said the resignation is scheduled for 3 p.m. [5].
However, the transition remains unconfirmed by all party officials. A veteran Congress leader, RV Deshpande, said Siddaramaiah may step down on Thursday [1]. In contrast, the Deccan Herald said that no decision on a leadership change has been made and that a final decision will be taken jointly by senior party leaders [6].
Further contradictions exist regarding the timing of the shift. The New Indian Express said that an immediate change in the chief minister's office is unlikely, suggesting the Congress party may be prioritizing focus on Kerala instead [7].
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar addressed the speculation recently. He said he will go by party directions regarding the chief minister post [8].
“Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from his post on Thursday, May 2, 2026”
The uncertainty surrounding the leadership change reflects internal friction and the complexity of the Congress party's power-sharing agreements in Karnataka. While a rotational formula suggests a planned transition, the conflicting reports from major news outlets and party insiders indicate that the final decision remains subject to negotiation among the party's top hierarchy.
