Politics
Siddaramaiah Not Keen on Rajya Sabha Role Amid Karnataka Leadership Speculation
Published On Thu, 28 May 2026
Fatima Hasan
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Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is reportedly not interested in moving to the Rajya Sabha despite ongoing speculation over a possible leadership change in the state Congress unit, according to sources familiar with the matter. The development comes amid renewed political discussions surrounding the future leadership of the Karnataka government. Reports suggest that the Congress high command has been exploring different options to maintain balance within the party, including the possibility of offering Siddaramaiah a role in national politics.
However, sources indicate that the senior Congress leader prefers to remain active in Karnataka politics rather than shift to Delhi through a Rajya Sabha position. Siddaramaiah is believed to have conveyed that he wants to continue focusing on governance and state-level political responsibilities. The speculation has intensified in recent weeks with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s name repeatedly surfacing in political circles over a potential leadership transition. Although Congress leaders have publicly dismissed reports of internal conflict, discussions about a possible power-sharing arrangement continue to generate attention in the state.
Political observers say Siddaramaiah’s reluctance to accept a Rajya Sabha berth highlights his strong connection with Karnataka’s grassroots politics. Known for his mass appeal and influence among backward class communities, the veteran leader has remained one of the Congress party’s strongest faces in the state. At the same time, the Congress leadership appears cautious about handling the situation, as both Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar are considered crucial for the party’s prospects in Karnataka. Any major decision regarding the chief minister’s post is likely to have a direct impact on the party’s internal equations ahead of future elections.
The BJP has also targeted the Congress over the ongoing speculation, accusing the ruling party of being preoccupied with internal power struggles instead of governance. Congress leaders, however, continue to insist that the Karnataka government remains stable and there is no immediate plan for a leadership change. So far, neither Siddaramaiah nor the Congress high command has made any official statement regarding the reports. Nevertheless, the political buzz surrounding Karnataka leadership is expected to continue in the coming days as party observers closely watch developments in Bengaluru and Delhi.
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