Siddaramaiah Meets Rahul, Sonia And Kharge In Delhi

Siddaramaiah Steps Down: A Meeting with Congress Leaders in Delhi

On Thursday, Siddaramaiah officially resigned from his position as Chief Minister, following directives from the Congress high command. This pivotal moment was accompanied by discussions regarding the formation of a new government, Rajya Sabha elections, and other pressing issues. After his meeting with Rahul and Sonia Gandhi, Siddaramaiah characterized the encounter as "pleasant," as confirmed by Karnataka Congress in-charge, Randeep Surjewala.

“Siddaramaiah met Rahul Gandhi today. It was a very pleasant meeting and they discussed multiple political issues. I have nothing to say further,”

Surjewala stated.

In a swift response, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted Siddaramaiah's resignation on Friday, just a day after the Chief Minister submitted it. An official statement from Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru also announced the immediate dissolution of Siddaramaiah's Council of Ministers. Nevertheless, he will retain the role of Chief Minister until a successor is appointed. The official order read,

“In exercise of the powers conferred on me under Article 164(1) of the Constitution of India, I, THAAWARCHAND GEHLOT, Governor of Karnataka, have accepted the resignation of Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka and dissolved the Council of Ministers headed by him with immediate effect. Siddaramaiah shall continue to function as Chief Minister till alternative arrangements are made,”

confirming the transition.

During a press conference following his resignation, Siddaramaiah expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Congress leadership and the people of Karnataka for the opportunity to lead the state.

“I am a politician and I have understood that the constitution is our religion. Voters are fans, God. I had the opportunity to speak to 7 crore people of Kannada Nadu. I had the opportunity to become the Chief Minister twice. I would like to express my immense gratitude to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, who have provided this opportunity,”

he remarked. He underscored that the Congress party still holds a solid majority in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, aided by independent legislators.

“Our party has won 135+1 seats. In addition, two independents have also supported our government. We are in the absolute majority,” he asserted, reinforcing his party's strength despite stepping down. The resignation followed a high-level meeting at his official residence, 'Kaveri,' where Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar paid his respects, a gesture many interpreted as indicative of a leadership transition. Siddaramaiah assured that constitutional protocols would guide the appointment of the next Chief Minister, expressing confidence in the Governor's adherence to these processes.

“I have submitted my resignation today after the high command told me to resign earlier. I am fully confident that the Governor will accept it when he comes. Because it has to be done according to the constitution,”

he concluded, affirming the legitimacy of the upcoming transition.