Siddaramaiah assured of importance in Congress by Rahul Gandhi: Report
What's the story
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has reportedly assured veteran politician Siddaramaiah of his continued importance in the party, even after stepping down as Karnataka Chief Minister. The two leaders met at Sonia Gandhi's residence on Friday morning, PTI reported, although she was not in attendance. During the meeting, Gandhi emphasized Siddaramaiah's vital role in the upcoming elections and urged him to be a national voice for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and social justice politics within Congress.
Leadership transition
RS seat discussed for Siddaramaiah
Gandhi also hinted at a larger role for Siddaramaiah in the party's future. The possibility of his moving to the Rajya Sabha was discussed, although he had previously declined a seat. Despite this, Siddaramaiah has expressed his desire to stay in Karnataka and not take up a central role as suggested by the party high command.
Cabinet formation
Siddaramaiah met Kharge after meeting with Gandhi
During the meeting, Siddaramaiah thanked Gandhi for his support and informed him about his resignation from the chief minister's post. He is also expected to seek cabinet positions for his son and loyalists in the new Karnataka government. After meeting Gandhi, Siddaramaiah met Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge to discuss government formation and his future role in the party.
Power transition
No hurdles in smooth transition of power in Karnataka: Surjewala
Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala, who attended the meeting between Kharge and Siddaramaiah, said, "It was a very pleasant meeting." On the transition of power in Karnataka, Sujewala was quoted as saying, "There is no hurdle in the smooth transition of power in the state." The state Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot had accepted Siddaramaiah's resignation as chief minister on Thursday.