Karnataka CM Change Buzz: Siddaramaiah May Resign, DK Shivakumar Likely To Take Over, Says Report

Senior Indian National Congress (INC) leaders held closed-door meetings in Delhi on Tuesday, sparking speculation that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may resign to take up a national role through the Rajya Sabha. Sources claim Congress wants Siddaramaiah to strengthen the party’s OBC (Other Backward Class) outreach under Rahul Gandhi’s social justice-focused campaign ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. The proposal reportedly positions Siddaramaiah’s Rajya Sabha move as a political advancement rather than a departure from Karnataka politics. However, Siddaramaiah is said to have requested more time before deciding, while Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar remains the likely successor if the transition occurs. Meetings involved Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Shivakumar, and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala, though the party denied discussions on leadership changes. Observers link the move to Congress’s 2029 strategy, where Siddaramaiah’s national profile could counter anti-incumbency ahead of Karnataka’s 2028 Assembly polls. Shivakumar’s name has resurfaced amid long-standing rumors of a power-sharing agreement, where he was expected to succeed Siddaramaiah after half the government’s tenure. The timing coincides with upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, where Karnataka will elect four members, with Congress expected to win three seats. Speculation intensified after the Siddaramaiah-led government completed half its term earlier this month. While no official confirmation exists, internal party dynamics and the push for OBC representation suggest a leadership shift is under consideration.