New Delhi: A day after stepping down as Karnataka Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah joined his successor DK Shivakumar In Delhi for a fresh round of consultations with the Congress leadership, as the party shifts its focus from leadership change to shaping the next government.The two leaders met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge amid discussions on Cabinet formation, the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections and Siddaramaiah’s future role within the party.The meetings are taking place as the Congress works to manage the post-transition phase in Karnataka and strike a balance before the formation of the new government under the leadership of Shivakumar.

Congress has focused its attention on cabinet formation

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar met Rahul Gandhi and Kharge before holding discussions with Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence. According to party sources, the talks focused on the composition of the new cabinet, Rajya Sabha nomination and the role of Siddaramaiah after his resignation.

Shivkumar with Congress leader Kharge

Sources told news agency PTI that Siddaramaiah thanked Rahul Gandhi for giving him the opportunity to serve the state and informed him that he had resigned from the post of chief minister.It is understood that the veteran Congress leader expressed his views on the new power system in Karnataka. Reports also suggest that he is not keen on moving to Delhi for a national role, preferring to remain engaged in state politics.

Siddaramaiah with Congress President Kharge

Siddaramaiah was accompanied by Karnataka ministers Priyank Kharge and KJ George as well as his son and MLC Yatindra Siddaramaiah.

Shivakumar’s emotional note for Siddaramaiah

Shivakumar issued his first public statement after Siddaramaiah’s resignation, praising the outgoing chief minister’s political journey and his contribution to Karnataka.Describing Siddaramaiah’s rise from a village in Mysuru district to the chief minister’s office as an example of perseverance and public service, Shivakumar said his life showed how opportunity, when matched with hard work and commitment, can shape a remarkable political career.“God doesn’t give blessings or curses. He only gives opportunities. What really matters is what we make of those opportunities.” Shivakumar said, the life of Siddaramaiah Avaru is one of the best reflections of this idea.Adhering to the adage, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”, he said he looked forward to continuing the journey together for the welfare of the people of Karnataka.

what happens next?

With the process of change of power formally beginning, the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is expected to meet soon to elect its new leader. The party high command may also appoint a central observer to monitor the process.After being elected, the new CLP leader will meet Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot and stake claim to form the government. The Governor is expected to verify the majority of the Congress legislature party before inviting the nominated Chief Minister to form the government. Karnataka CLP meeting will be held on Saturday at 4 pm.The incoming chief minister, expected to be Shivakumar, will later submit a list of ministers to form the new cabinet before the swearing-in of the Council of Ministers.Cabinet structure has emerged as the next challengeThe composition of the cabinet is expected to be one of the most sensitive issues in the coming days. There is speculation that the Congress leadership may try to accommodate leaders considered close to Siddaramaiah in the new government to maintain organizational balance and ensure a smooth transition.The distribution of ministerial portfolios, possible appointment of deputy chief ministers and representation for various factions within the party are all expected to be included in the next round of consultations.Sources told news agency PTI that Siddaramaiah may seek a place for his son and his loyalists in the new Karnataka cabinet, including the post of Deputy Chief Minister.Although the leadership question has been resolved, the coming days will determine both Siddaramaiah’s influence in the new dispensation and the final shape of the Karnataka government under Shivakumar.