NEW DELHI: Outgoing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday shared a lunch with his deputy DK Shivakumar, Minister KJ George, and Legislative Council member Yathindra Siddaramaiah in the national capital. This gathering came a day after Siddaramaiah announced his decision to step down from the top post, clearing the path for Shivakumar to assume the role of Chief Minister.
Meetings with Congress Leadership
Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah held discussions with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal. The talks covered the upcoming Karnataka cabinet reshuffle, Rajya Sabha elections, and other organisational matters.
Following the meeting, Kharge took to social media platform X to praise Siddaramaiah's contributions to public life. He described the outgoing chief minister as a leader deeply committed to social justice, equality, and the welfare of marginalised communities.
"Siddaramaiah's public life has consistently reflected dignity, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice. From humble beginnings to serving Karnataka twice as Chief Minister, he remained steadfast in his commitment to equality, harmony, and the welfare of the marginalised. Karnataka and the Congress party remain grateful for his contribution to public life. Wishing him good health and the very best in his continued service to the people," Kharge said.
Siddaramaiah's Social Media Post
Siddaramaiah also shared details of the interaction on social media, noting that senior Congress leaders KJ George, Priyank Kharge, and MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah were present during the meeting. "Had a warm meeting with AICC President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi today. Shri KJ George, Shri Priyank Kharge, and MLC Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah were also present," he posted on X.
Leadership Transition Speculation
Amid intense speculation over the next chief minister, Congress MLA Ashok Pattan stated that DK Shivakumar is likely to be elected as the leader of the Congress Legislative Party during a meeting scheduled for Saturday. Earlier, senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily described the development as a "smooth transition" and revealed that the change in leadership had been planned when Siddaramaiah assumed office for a second term.
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