D.K. Shivakumar is set to be sworn in as Karnataka Chief Minister within the next two days, following the resignation of Siddaramaiah from the post on Thursday, according to senior Congress leader and Karnataka Minister H.K. Patil. The Congress high command has effectively cleared the path for Shivakumar, currently Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and former Deputy Chief Minister, to take the state's top office.

What H.K. Patil Said

Speaking to reporters on Friday, 29 May, Patil confirmed that Shivakumar's elevation had been decided at the highest levels of the party. 'Shivakumar is already the Chief Minister-designate. Yesterday, when former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his thoughts and spoke about the discussions held in Delhi, he clearly stated that he had been advised to resign and that Shivakumar should be made the next Chief Minister. From that moment itself, it became clear that Shivakumar would be our next Chief Minister,' Patil said.

Patil added that a formal Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting has been convened for Saturday at 4 pm to endorse the high command's decision. 'Shivakumar is expected to be sworn in either the day after tomorrow or a day later,' he said.

Siddaramaiah Meets Rahul Gandhi in Delhi

Caretaker Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at Sonia Gandhi's 10 Janpath residence in New Delhi following his resignation. Rahul Gandhi received Siddaramaiah warmly, greeting him with a handshake and a hug before posing for photographs. Siddaramaiah has been asked to continue in a caretaker capacity until new arrangements are finalised.

Patil Praises Siddaramaiah's Political Stature

Patil was effusive in his praise for the outgoing chief minister, describing the resignation as a moment that had elevated Siddaramaiah's political standing. 'Siddaramaiah has grown even taller politically. His historic decision and expression of loyalty to the party and leadership have surprised many of our opponents,' Patil said. He dismissed the possibility of Siddaramaiah continuing in the Cabinet. 'After serving as Chief Minister for eight years and being such a tall leader, I do not think that question is relevant,' he added.

OBC Factor and Caste Equations

Responding to questions about caste dynamics and the Other Backward Classes (OBC) factor in Karnataka politics, Patil argued that such concerns did not apply to Shivakumar. 'Shivakumar has also fought for OBC causes. In a way, he is also partly connected to the OBC community. Therefore, such questions are neither relevant nor necessary,' he stated. The remark comes amid longstanding debates in Karnataka over community representation at the top of the state government.

Shivakumar Pays Tribute to Siddaramaiah

Shivakumar, for his part, paid tribute to Siddaramaiah following the resignation, describing his political journey as 'a symbol of resilience, perseverance and commitment to social justice.' The two leaders have long been the twin pillars of the Karnataka Congress, and the transition marks a significant shift in the state's political balance. The CLP meeting on Saturday is expected to formalise what the high command has already decided — with the oath ceremony likely to follow swiftly.