He affirmed that he will stay in politics as long as he has the people’s support, while also sharing his contentment with his administration.
In his second term as chief minister, the 77-year-old Congress leader surpassed Devaraj Urs’ record, serving as CM for 2,792 days.
“One must have the blessings of the people to thrive in politics. With their support, I have come this far, though I don’t know how much longer I will be involved. I intend to continue as long as I am blessed,” Siddaramaiah stated.
While addressing reporters, he mentioned his satisfaction with the administration.
In response to the BJP’s assertions that his achievements are nonexistent and that he has depleted the state’s finances, Siddaramaiah countered by stating that opposition leaders excel in fabricating lies.
“Who introduced the SCP/TSP (Special Component Plan and Tribal Sub-Plan) act? Did they (BJP) implement it? Did they ensure reservations in promotions? Who initiated the Anna Bhagya scheme? How can they claim I achieved nothing? They should consult the public about our contributions,” he remarked.
Siddaramaiah’s exceptional record as the longest-serving CM comes amidst growing power struggles within his party, amid rumors about a potential shift in the chief ministerial position as the Congress government reaches the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20.
This speculation has been fueled by the “power-sharing” agreement between Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar in 2023.
He clarified that his political endeavors were not aimed at breaking records, expressing confidence in completing the full five-year term, while noting that the final decision rests with the Congress high command.
Shivakumar reacted to Siddaramaiah’s remarks by wishing him “good luck”.
Many ministers and Congress leaders close to Siddaramaiah have voiced their belief in his ability to complete the full five-year term.
