By MANISH ANAND
As Siddaramaiah prepares to step down, intense lobbying for Cabinet berths, caste equations and dynastic calculations dominate Congress discussions in New Delhi.
New Delhi, May 29, 2026 — The Karnataka power transition is unfolding with breakfast and luncheon meetings. Over the breakfast, outgoing Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah had announced his decision to resign from the post in Bengaluru with his Cabinet colleagues. He shared a lunch with his successor D. K. Shivakumar and others in New Delhi, as the next set of ministers are being discussed with the Congress high command.
The big takeaway of the Friday action in New Delhi was an apparent push on parts of Siddaramaiah for his son Yathindra Siddaramiah, who is a member of the legislative council in the state. The message was clear that the Congress veteran wants to pass on his legacy to his son by pushing for a ministerial berth in a Cabinet that will be headed by Shivakumar.
In Karnataka and elsewhere also, the political veterans seek to establish a dynasty of their own. Former Karnataka Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa has also established his sons in the state politics. The BJP top brass has also accorded approval to BSY’s dynasty by promoting his son in the state politics. Siddaramaiah, thus, is asking for a consolation for him leaving the CM post despite being a popular face of the party in Karnataka.
Hectic lobbying is underway for ministerial berths in the next Karnataka Cabinet. Heavyweights are camping in New Delhi. They are knocking at the doors who may have access to leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
Lobbying for ministerial berths is also witnessing regional push. Some are even demanding the representations be based on state districts. Ministers will also address the Congress’ bid to address the caste balance.
The Congress will address the caste balance challenge by picking up names for Karnataka Cabinet from OBCs, Lingayat, Vokkaliga, and Dalits. Congress general secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal is being seen as a powerful centre who may influence the composition of the next Karnataka Cabinet.
While Shivakumar is set for oath as the next CM, he may have limited role in deciding his Cabinet per sources. Team Rahul Gandhi is weighing probable, while listening to all stakeholders.
Gandhi has paid rich tribute by applauding the role of Siddaramaiah and his political legacy. Gandhi has said that the outgoing CM will begin a new innings. That role is not yet revealed, while a Rajya Sabha nomination seems on the card.
Karnataka Congress Change of Guard Boosts Rahul Gandhi’s Grip
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