Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to meet Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi following his resignation from the post. The meeting, scheduled for Friday, comes amid reports that Siddaramaiah will decline an offer to contest the Rajya Sabha elections. Sources indicate that the former chief minister wants to focus on strengthening the party in Karnataka rather than moving to the upper house of Parliament.
Background of the Resignation
Siddaramaiah resigned as chief minister on Tuesday after the Congress high command decided to replace him with a new face ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. His resignation was accepted by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. The move is seen as part of the party's strategy to revitalize its Karnataka unit and counter the ruling BJP's influence.
Meeting with Rahul Gandhi
The meeting with Rahul Gandhi is expected to be a courtesy call, but political observers believe it will also involve discussions on Siddaramaiah's future role in the party. While some Congress leaders had suggested that Siddaramaiah could be nominated to the Rajya Sabha, he is likely to refuse the offer, preferring to remain active in state politics.
“Siddaramaiah is a grassroots leader and wants to continue working for the people of Karnataka. He believes he can contribute more effectively from the state level,” a senior Congress functionary said. The meeting will also touch upon the party's preparations for the upcoming local body elections in Karnataka.
Political Implications
The development has significant implications for the Congress party in Karnataka. Siddaramaiah remains a prominent Dalit leader and has a strong support base among the state's backward classes. His decision to stay in state politics could help the party consolidate its vote bank ahead of the 2026 assembly polls.
On the other hand, the BJP has been quick to criticize the Congress for its internal turmoil. “The Congress is in disarray. First they remove a sitting chief minister, now they are trying to manage egos. This shows their lack of vision,” said a BJP spokesperson.
Siddaramaiah's resignation has also sparked speculation about his successor. Names of several Congress MLAs are doing the rounds, including DK Shivakumar and G Parameshwara. The party is expected to announce the new chief minister after Siddaramaiah's meeting with Rahul Gandhi.
