A crucial 35-minute meeting between Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is believed to have paved the way for the leadership transition in Karnataka. Sources told NDTV that Rahul Gandhi urged Siddaramaiah to take on a larger national role within the Congress, describing him as one of the party's strongest OBC leaders. The Congress high command reportedly framed the change as part of a broader strategy for the 2028 Karnataka elections and the party's long-term national revival, clearing the path for DK Shivakumar to take charge.