Karnataka CM Race: Despite the Congress' triumph in Karnataka, the suspense surrounding the Chief Ministerial position remains intact. Party leaders are grappling with the decision-making process for selecting the CM candidate.

In light of this, the party's high command finds itself in a state of confusion and has dispatched observers to Karnataka for further evaluation and deliberation.

Following the Legislature Party meeting in Bengaluru, the observers conducted individual meetings with all the members today.

Subsequently, a decision was reached that all MLAs would anonymously express their preference for the Chief Ministerial candidate by placing a chit in a designated box.

It is worth noting that there are two prominent contenders, DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah, vying for the CM position in Karnataka.

Conflicting opinions emerge among Congress MLAs in Karnataka CM race

Sources indicate that during the meeting with the MLAs, three types of opinions were expressed. Firstly, those MLAs who are close to both leaders said that they would agree with the decision of the high command.

Secondly, MLAs who are supporters of Siddaramaiah identified him as their leader, and thirdly, MLAs who support Shivakumar considered him their leader.

Sources suggest that Siddaramaiah received more support in the opinion poll. When DK Shivakumar was informed about this, his demeanor was seen to have changed slightly.

Karnataka CM Race: Siddaramaiah departed for Delhi at 1 pm

DK Shivakumar, on the occasion of his birthday, expressed uncertainty regarding receiving a birthday gift from the high command after meeting with the observers. However, he expressed gratitude for the blessings he received from the people of Karnataka.

He acknowledged Sonia Gandhi's trust in him and emphasized that he had fulfilled his promise to strengthen the Congress in Karnataka.

Despite facing challenges from the double engine government, he achieved a significant victory for the party.

While Siddaramaiah departed for Delhi at 1 pm via a special plane, DK Shivakumar delayed his departure, citing the celebration of his birthday and the need to conduct worship at home.