New Delhi: In a significant organizational move, the Congress party has appointed former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as a member of its highest decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee (CWC). The appointment comes just days after he stepped down as Chief Minister, marking the end of his record-long tenure of over eight years across two terms .
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge issued the order, which took effect immediately. The announcement was made by party general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal, who stated, "Hon'ble Congress president has appointed Shri Siddaramaiah as Member of the CWC with immediate effect" .
Timing and Political Context
The appointment arrived on the eve of DK Shivakumar's swearing-in ceremony as the new Chief Minister of Karnataka, scheduled for Wednesday . The timing is seen as a strategic move by the high command to balance factional dynamics within the state unit and ensure the veteran leader remains actively engaged in party affairs despite relinquishing the top post.
According to sources, Siddaramaiah had reportedly declined an offer of a Rajya Sabha seat, choosing instead to remain active in state politics . The CWC position appears to be a compromise that keeps him within the organizational framework while allowing Shivakumar to assume the chief ministership.
Declining a Rajya Sabha Offer
Reports indicate that the Congress leadership had offered Siddaramaiah a Rajya Sabha berth, which would have shifted his political career to the national stage. However, the former Chief Minister reportedly turned down the offer, preferring to stay rooted in Karnataka's political landscape . His decision to remain in state politics while accepting the CWC role suggests he intends to continue wielding significant influence over Karnataka's governance and party affairs.
A Delicate Balancing Act
The appointment comes amid ongoing discussions about a proposed coordination committee to act as a bridge between the party and the new government . While the proposal is yet to receive formal approval, it has reignited debates about potential dual power centres in Karnataka Congress.
Political analysts note that Siddaramaiah remains the party's tallest mass leader in Karnataka and cannot be politically sidelined, but the transition to Shivakumar is intended to be clear and decisive . The CWC position provides Siddaramaiah with a formal national role while allowing the high command to project organisational unity during the leadership change.
Siddaramaiah's Long Political Journey
The veteran leader, who began his political career with the Janata Party before moving to the Congress, has served as Chief Minister twice—first from 2013 to 2018 and then from 2023 to 2026. His appointment to the CWC represents recognition of his organisational acumen and mass appeal, even as he steps away from executive power in the state.
The swearing-in ceremony of DK Shivakumar is expected to be attended by several senior leaders, including former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and chief ministers from Congress-ruled states.
