Siddaramaiah Resigns as Karnataka Chief Minister

Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Thursday resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka amid major political developments within the ruling party.

According to reports, Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation at Lok Bhavan as senior Congress leaders gathered in Bengaluru for discussions regarding the leadership transition in the State.

Tension and protests were witnessed outside the Chief Minister’s residence before Siddaramaiah left for Lok Bhavan. Demonstrators reportedly attempted to block the convoy as heavy security was deployed in the area.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar arrived at Siddaramaiah’s residence shortly before the resignation, further intensifying speculation over the next Chief Ministerial candidate.

State Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar said Siddaramaiah was acting in accordance with the Congress high command’s directions.

“Whatever the high command says, not only me but even our CM will listen. He is doing whatever the high command told him,” she told reporters.

Congress MLA Allamprabhu Patil also reiterated that party legislators would abide by the decisions taken by the leadership.

Earlier in the day, Karnataka Minister HK Patil confirmed that Siddaramaiah was expected to step down by afternoon.