Confusion and political speculation grew in Karnataka over reports that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may tender his resignation amid ongoing leadership discussions within the Congress government.

Attention quickly shifted to whether such a resignation could be formally submitted if Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot was reportedly travelling outside Bengaluru.

A viral itinerary circulating on social media suggested the Governor had engagements in Mumbai, Indore and his native place Nagda in Madhya Pradesh on May 27–28, leading to questions about the logistics of the resignation process.

However, officials from Raj Bhavan clarified that there was no confirmed request or communication from Siddaramaiah seeking an appointment with the Governor.

News agency PTI quoted officials stating that the Governor was not currently in Bengaluru and that no formal message regarding a resignation meeting had been received.

Despite this, legal and constitutional experts pointed out that the Governor’s physical presence in the state is not strictly necessary for receiving a resignation.

Under Article 164(1) of the Constitution, the Governor appoints the Chief Minister and accepts resignations, but the Constitution does not mandate face-to-face submission.

Experts, including Supreme Court lawyer RK Singh, noted that resignations can be submitted through alternative means such as email or fax, and may be accepted even if the Governor is not physically present in the state.The Governor can act on such communication remotely as well.

The political backdrop includes ongoing discussions within the Karnataka Congress regarding leadership, with Siddaramaiah having completed nearly three years in office.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has been a long-discussed contender for the top post, and recent meetings between the two leaders, including a breakfast meeting, have added to speculation.However, no official announcement on succession has been made, and uncertainty continues over the next leadership arrangement.