Siddaramaiah resigned as the chief minister of Karnataka on Thursday, May 28, 2026 [1].
The resignation marks the end of a prolonged power struggle within the state's Congress party leadership. By stepping down, Siddaramaiah facilitates a transition of power to DK Shivakumar, aimed at stabilizing the party's governance in the region.
Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation at the Governor’s office located at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru [2]. During a subsequent media address, the former chief minister became emotional while speaking about his tenure and the support he received from the public.
"I thank the people of Karnataka for their unwavering support and trust," Siddaramaiah said [3].
Reports indicate that the decision followed a period of internal friction. Siddaramaiah reportedly turned down an offer for a Rajya Sabha seat as part of the leadership transition [2]. Despite leaving the state's highest executive office, he indicated that he does not intend to retire from public life.
"I will continue in active politics, fight communal forces until my last breath," Siddaramaiah said [2].
The emotional nature of the departure was also mirrored among his colleagues. During a breakfast meeting, several ministers reportedly became tearful as the decision to resign was finalized [4].
Siddaramaiah has been a central figure in Karnataka politics and a senior leader within the Congress party. His exit from the chief minister's office closes a chapter of leadership tension that has shadowed the administration's internal dynamics.
“I will continue in active politics, fight communal forces until my last breath.”
The transition from Siddaramaiah to DK Shivakumar resolves a visible leadership rift within the Karnataka Congress. By refusing a Rajya Sabha seat and pledging to remain in active politics, Siddaramaiah maintains his influence within the party's ideological wing while allowing the administration to move forward under new leadership to avoid further political instability.
