Siddaramaiah Meets Rahul, Sonia And Kharge In Delhi

Siddaramaiah Steps Down as Chief Minister Amid High-Level Talks in Delhi

On Thursday, Siddaramaiah resigned from his position as Chief Minister of Karnataka, following directives from the Congress leadership. His resignation set the stage for discussions regarding the formation of a new government, upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, and other pressing matters. Karnataka Congress in charge Siddaramaiah described his meeting with Rahul and Sonia Gandhi as “very pleasant,” during which various political topics were addressed. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala confirmed the amicable nature of the discussions, stating,

“It was a very pleasant meeting and they discussed multiple political issues. I have nothing to say further.”

In a swift response, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted Siddaramaiah’s resignation on Friday, the day after it was submitted. An official statement from Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru confirmed that the Governor also dissolved Siddaramaiah's Council of Ministers effective immediately. However, Siddaramaiah will remain in office until a successor is appointed. The Governor's 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.”

During a press conference following his resignation, Siddaramaiah expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Congress leadership and the people of Karnataka for the opportunity to serve. He remarked,

“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 would like to express my immense gratitude to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge.”

He emphasized that the Congress party still holds a strong majority in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, bolstered by support from independent legislators.

Siddaramaiah noted,

“Our party has won 135+1 seats. In addition, two independents have also supported our government. We are in the absolute majority.”

His resignation followed a significant meeting at his official residence, where Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar paid his respects, signaling a potential leadership transition in the state. Siddaramaiah assured that constitutional protocols would be upheld in appointing the next Chief Minister, expressing confidence in the Governor's forthcoming actions.

He stated,

“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.”

Siddaramaiah reiterated that the constitutional process must be followed, underscoring the party’s majority and the need for an orderly transition of leadership.