New Delhi— A day after stepping down as Karnataka Chief Minister, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah met Rahul Gandhi at Sonia Gandhi’s 10 Janpath residence in New Delhi on Friday morning to discuss his future role and the transition of power in the state.
Siddaramaiah was accompanied by his son Yathindra during the meeting, which lasted for nearly an hour. According to party sources, Sonia Gandhi was not present during the discussions.
The meeting assumes significance as the Congress leadership works out the next phase of Karnataka politics following Siddaramaiah’s resignation, which was formally accepted by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Thursday.
Sources said Siddaramaiah thanked Rahul Gandhi for giving him the opportunity to serve as chief minister and informed him that he had resigned from the post as directed by the party leadership.
Despite suggestions from the Congress high command regarding a possible central role, Siddaramaiah has reportedly conveyed that he wishes to remain active in Karnataka politics and is not interested in moving to Delhi. He had earlier also declined a Rajya Sabha berth.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah is likely to seek important positions for his son and loyalists in the new Karnataka Cabinet, including the post of deputy chief minister.
After meeting Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah also held discussions with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge regarding government formation in Karnataka and his future responsibilities within the party.
Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala, who was present during the meeting with Rahul Gandhi, described it as “very pleasant” and said several issues were discussed.
When asked about the leadership transition in Karnataka, Surjewala said there would be no obstacles in the smooth transfer of power.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who is widely expected to become the next chief minister, is likely to separately meet Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal to discuss cabinet formation and the new government structure.
The Congress leadership is also expected to discuss restructuring the party organisation in Karnataka as part of the transition process.
Sources said a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is likely to be held on Saturday to formally elect the new chief minister.
A two-time chief minister, Siddaramaiah joined the Congress in 2006 after leaving the Janata Dal (Secular).
