CM Chair For Shivakumar, CM Bungalow For Siddaramaiah: Karnataka's Unusual Split

Even as Karnataka prepares for a change in leadership with DK Shivakumar set to be sworn in as Chief Minister on June 3, an unusual arrangement has emerged in the state government. While Siddaramaiah is stepping down from the top post, the official Chief Minister's residence may not witness a change of occupant.According to sources, Siddaramaiah is likely to continue residing at the iconic Cauvery bungalow, the official residence traditionally allotted to the sitting Chief Minister, even after demitting office. The arrangement is seen as part of a broader understanding between the Congress leadership ahead of the transition of power.DK Shivakumar, who is set to take charge as Chief Minister, will initially operate from and stay at his private

residence. Sources said he is expected to shift his official base at a later stage to another suitable government-allotted accommodation rather than moving into the Cauvery bungalow.The two senior Congress leaders have reportedly arrived at an amicable understanding on the issue. Under the arrangement, Siddaramaiah is expected to formally retain the Cauvery residence and continue living there until 2028, despite no longer holding the Chief Minister's office.Also Read: Who Will Make the Cut In DK Shivakumar's Karnataka Cabinet 2.0?

Karnataka Cabinet 2.0

Meanwhile, discussions over the composition of the new state cabinet have intensified. Senior party leaders have been holding consultations in Delhi ahead of the swearing-in ceremony. On Tuesday, veteran Congress leader Siddaramaiah met party leadership in the national capital, while Karnataka Congress MLA Priyank Kharge also held talks with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge amid growing speculation over his role in the incoming government.Sources told Times Now that several senior leaders are likely to be inducted into the Karnataka Cabinet 2.0 alongside Shivakumar. The probable list includes KJ George, G Parameshwara, Ramalinga Reddy, and KB Gowda.Among the frontrunners, KJ George is expected to secure a cabinet berth, while Mansoor Ali has emerged as one of the leading contenders for a Rajya Sabha seat, according to sources.(With agency inputs)