Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar hugged and touched the feet of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during a breakfast meeting in Bengaluru on May 28, 2026 [1].
The interaction is being viewed as a critical signal of a power shift within the state government. Political observers said the gesture marks the beginning of a transition as Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from his post, positioning Shivakumar as his successor [2, 3].
The meeting took place at the official residence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah [4]. The display of bonhomie and the act of seeking blessings occurred amid a period of perceived power struggles between the two leaders [1, 5].
Reports said the meeting was characterized by smiles and a warm embrace [4]. This public display of unity follows months of speculation regarding the internal dynamics of the Karnataka administration and the timing of a potential change in leadership [3, 6].
While no official resignation date has been announced by the Chief Minister's office, the nature of the encounter is being interpreted as a symbolic endorsement of the Deputy Chief Minister [3, 6]. The transition would represent a significant realignment of authority within the state's executive branch.
“DK Shivakumar hugged and touched the feet of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.”
The public display of deference from Shivakumar to Siddaramaiah suggests a negotiated settlement to a leadership rivalry. By symbolically seeking blessings, Shivakumar is likely attempting to ensure a smooth handover of power and maintain party stability, reducing the risk of internal friction as the state prepares for a change in its top executive office.
