New Delhi/Bengaluru, May 26, 2026 – In a major political development, the Congress high command has reportedly asked Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to step down from his position this week, clearing the way for Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to assume the top leadership role in the state.
According to multiple sources, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar were summoned to Delhi for crucial meetings with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and other senior leaders at the party headquarters. The high command is said to have conveyed that it is “time for a change,” offering Siddaramaiah a Rajya Sabha seat and a prominent national role in return.
The move comes amid long-standing internal speculation about a power-sharing arrangement. After Congress’s victory in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, there were informal understandings that Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar would each lead the government for roughly 2.5 years. With Siddaramaiah completing his initial term, Shivakumar’s supporters have been actively pushing for the transition.
Reluctance and Negotiations
Sources indicate that Siddaramaiah is unhappy with being eased out of active state politics entirely. The veteran leader, who had previously indicated willingness to step down if formally asked, is reportedly seeking more time and assurances for his loyalists in any future cabinet reshuffle. Close aides have advised him not to agree immediately but to negotiate terms.
Meanwhile, KN Rajanna, a senior Congress leader, stirred further controversy by claiming that DK Shivakumar had submitted his resignation as Karnataka Congress President several months ago due to internal discontent.
Strategic Calculations
The leadership change is widely seen as an attempt by the Congress high command to address growing anti-incumbency ahead of future elections while rewarding Shivakumar for his organizational efforts that contributed significantly to the 2023 victory. A cabinet reshuffle is also expected as part of the transition.
BJP leaders have already reacted to the developments, describing the situation as a sign of instability within the Congress government in Karnataka. Some opposition voices claim the change could happen soon after the ongoing budget-related processes.
As of now, no official announcement has been made. The situation remains fluid, with final clarity expected in the coming days. Siddaramaiah’s resignation, if it materializes, would mark a significant shift in Karnataka’s political landscape and test the unity of the Congress unit in the state.
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