DK Shivakumar’s long-cherished dream is finally set to come true. The current Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka is all set to take over as the next Chief Minister with the blessings of the Congress high command. DK Shivakumar played a crucial role in bringing the Congress party back to power in Karnataka. After the elections, the party leadership reportedly worked out a formula under which Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister first, with an assurance that Shivakumar would get the opportunity after two-and-a-half years. The current leadership change is said to be part of that agreement. However, the transition was far from smooth. After assuming office, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah repeatedly stated on several occasions that he would continue as Chief Minister for the full five-year term. He also publicly claimed that there was no agreement regarding a power-sharing arrangement. These remarks sparked political debates and internal discussions within the party multiple times.
Finally, after elections in several key states concluded, the Congress high command reportedly decided to end the uncertainty surrounding the Karnataka government. As part of this decision, the leadership asked Siddaramaiah to step down and cleared the way for D. K. Shivakumar to take over as Chief Minister. Accordingly, on Thursday, Siddaramaiah held a breakfast meeting with ministers at his residence and informed them about his decision to resign. During the meeting, it was also confirmed that DK Shivakumar would soon assume charge as the new Chief Minister. Siddaramaiah reportedly announced the dissolution of the cabinet as well. An emotional moment unfolded during the breakfast gathering when DK Shivakumar touched Siddaramaiah’s feet and sought his blessings before warmly embracing him.
Siddaramaiah has already sought an appointment with the Governor to submit his resignation letter. He was reportedly prepared to hand over his resignation on Thursday morning, but the Governor was unavailable as he had apparently left for Mumbai at around 10:30 PM on Wednesday night. Siddaramaiah is now expected to formally submit his resignation to the Governor at 3 PM on Thursday. Reports also suggest that the Congress high command offered several assurances to Siddaramaiah in return for stepping down. He has reportedly been promised a Rajya Sabha ticket and was advised to move into national politics.
In addition, the leadership is also believed to have assured a cabinet berth for Siddaramaiah’s son Yathindra. Following his resignation, Siddaramaiah is expected to visit Delhi once again. Political circles believe that the Congress leadership’s decision to change the Chief Minister at this stage is part of a larger strategy. Known as a strong political organizer, DK Shivakumar is expected to lead the party into the next elections with the aim of retaining Congress power in Karnataka once again.