Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation on Friday, 29 May, triggering swift political developments in the state. The resignation was accepted by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, with Siddaramaiah asked to continue as caretaker Chief Minister until a successor is formally appointed.

Venugopal's Message on Congress Discipline

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary (Organisation) and Member of Parliament K.C. Venugopal responded to the development with a pointed post on social media platform X, stating: 'Party above self, people above power — because for Congress, the party is our family and the people are the purpose.'

The statement is widely being read as an assertion of the Congress party's collective leadership ethos and internal discipline at a moment of significant political transition in Karnataka. This comes amid broader scrutiny of the party's succession management in one of its most electorally important states.

Priyank Kharge Pays Tribute to Siddaramaiah

Senior Congress leader and former minister Priyank Kharge issued an emotional tribute to Siddaramaiah, describing him as a leader who earned public trust through welfare-oriented governance, ideological commitment, and sustained political struggle.

Kharge noted that Siddaramaiah had set a record as one of Karnataka's longest-serving Chief Ministers and had emerged as a genuine people's leader through the Congress party's pro-people programmes and principled political positions.

'Leaders of our generation and future young politicians look up to him as an inspiration,' Kharge said.

A Personal and Political Bond

Kharge spoke at length about Siddaramaiah's role as a mentor in his own political career. He recalled that Siddaramaiah had entrusted him with significant portfolios — including Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Tourism — at a young age, and had ensured he never felt out of his depth as one of the youngest ministers in the cabinet.

'He not only encouraged me but also gave me the freedom to formulate people-centric programmes. Even during the present term, his guidance remained valuable while handling two major portfolios,' Kharge said.

Siddaramaiah's Legacy and What Comes Next

Under Siddaramaiah's leadership, the Congress government in Karnataka reportedly delivered on its guarantee schemes, which Kharge credited with economically empowering ordinary citizens. He described Siddaramaiah's political journey 'from Siddaramanahundi to Vidhana Soudha' as an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.

Kharge urged party workers to continue strengthening the Congress organisation under Siddaramaiah's guidance and to 'protect the state from communal forces.' With the caretaker arrangement in place, the focus now shifts to who the Congress high command will name as Karnataka's next Chief Minister.