The Congress party leadership is holding consultations in New Delhi regarding the structure of the Karnataka government following the recent leadership transition.Siddaramaiah, 77, who resigned as the Chief Minister, and DK Shivakumar, the expected successor, are participating in these discussions.

The consultations are focusing on the composition of the new council of ministers, Cabinet berths, allocation of key portfolios, and balancing the interests of different factions within the state unit.Siddaramaiah’s resignation was accepted by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, who also dissolved the existing council of ministers.Siddaramaiah will continue to function as Chief Minister until formal arrangements are made.The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is scheduled to meet next week to elect its new leader.Siddaramaiah has stated he will remain active in state politics and declined a Rajya Sabha seat, choosing instead to continue as a legislator.

Multiple deputy chief ministers are expected to be appointed, with Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra, likely to receive a Cabinet berth or possibly a deputy chief minister role.

The party aims to consolidate its support base of backward classes, Dalits, and Muslims ahead of the 2028 assembly elections, following its strong performance in the 2023 elections where it won 135 of 224 seats.The transition marks the end of months of uncertainty over the leadership in Karnataka.