Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is reportedly exploring constitutional options to submit his resignation despite Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot being out of Bengaluru
Bengaluru: The political uncertainty surrounding the Karnataka Congress leadership transition has intensified after reports emerged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may proceed with his resignation process even in the absence of Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot.
The dramatic developments come amid growing speculation over the Congress power-sharing formula and possible leadership change in Karnataka.
According to political sources, Siddaramaiah had already sought time to meet the Governor on Thursday afternoon. However, Governor Gehlot reportedly left Bengaluru for Indore, creating uncertainty over the formal resignation process.
Despite the Governor’s absence, constitutional procedures may still allow the Chief Minister to submit his resignation through Raj Bhavan officials.
CM May Submit Resignation to Raj Bhavan Special Secretary
Sources indicated that Siddaramaiah is seriously considering handing over his resignation letter to the Special Secretary of Raj Bhavan, also referred to as Lok Bhavan in political discussions.
Under constitutional procedure, the Chief Minister can reportedly submit the resignation document through authorised officials even if the Governor is temporarily unavailable in Bengaluru.
“The Chief Minister has the constitutional option of submitting his resignation letter through the Governor’s Special Secretary,” political sources stated.
However, officials clarified that the resignation process may not be considered fully complete until the Governor formally accepts it after returning to Bengaluru.
Governor’s Formal Approval Still Required
According to constitutional convention, once the resignation letter is submitted, the Governor is expected to review and formally approve it upon his return.
Sources said the Governor may personally call Siddaramaiah for an official meeting at Raj Bhavan before formally accepting the resignation and completing the constitutional process.
This means the Chief Minister could be required to visit Raj Bhavan again after Governor Gehlot returns to the state capital.
The development has further intensified political curiosity across Karnataka, where speculation regarding a possible leadership transition continues to dominate discussions.
Bakrid Holiday Adds to Political Uncertainty
Adding to the unusual political situation, Raj Bhavan offices are officially observing a general holiday on Thursday due to Bakrid celebrations.
However, senior officials have reportedly been instructed to remain available for emergency administrative duties, considering the fast-moving political developments in the state.
Sources indicated that urgent communication channels inside Raj Bhavan remain active despite the public holiday.
Governor Expected to Return to Bengaluru Tonight
Political and administrative sources said Governor Gehlot is likely to return to Bengaluru by Thursday night.
The Governor’s return is considered important because Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar is expected to arrive in Bengaluru on Friday morning, and protocol requires the Governor to officially receive him at HAL Airport.
With the Governor expected back in Bengaluru within hours, a clearer picture regarding the Karnataka leadership crisis and Siddaramaiah’s possible resignation may emerge later in the evening.
The ongoing political developments have kept the entire state focused on the next move by the Congress high command and the Chief Minister.
