Bengaluru: Barely an hour after handing in his resignation as chief minister at Lok Bhavan on Thursday, Siddaramaiah insisted that his political career is far from over — a signal that could impact political equations and weigh heavily on his successor.
Siddaramaiah's Commitment to Social Justice
Invoking his socialist roots and Ahinda politics, Siddaramaiah said social justice would continue to guide the rest of his public life. "I shall remain in active politics to defeat communal forces and ensure social justice till my last breath," Siddaramaiah declared at a packed press conference at his residence. "Through my tenure of close to 50 years in active politics, I have remained true to my principles and never compromised on them." He added that he has believed in the words of Babasaheb Ambedkar, Buddha, and Basavanna, and imparting social justice has been evident in his work as opposition leader and as chief minister across two terms — from 2013 to 2018 and from 2023 till date.
Defending the Constitution
The 77-year-old, regarded as one of Karnataka's tallest OBC politicians in recent decades, said protecting the Constitution remained his foremost commitment. "Had it not been for the Constitution, a simple villager like me would not have had an education, would not have become an MLA, a minister, a deputy CM, opposition leader, and two-time CM," he said.
Accomplishments as Chief Minister
Siddaramaiah expressed satisfaction with his career and tenure as CM, especially the implementation of the guarantee schemes, which he credited for improving living standards and boosting Karnataka's economy. "The rollout of the schemes in the very first year of our government brought me and the party immense satisfaction," he said. "It helped Karnataka gain the number one spot in the country in per capita income. It was also in line with my thinking of social and economic justice which I pursued through my two terms as CM."
Criticism of BJP
He said critics — largely the BJP — had predicted financial disaster if the guarantees were rolled out. "BJP, including none other than the prime minister of our country, attacked me saying the guarantee schemes would bring the state financial ruin and bankruptcy. But we proved them wrong and maintained our position within the fiscal responsibility and budget management limits," he said, while admitting his government could not achieve revenue surplus. He also accused the previous BJP government of financial mismanagement. "They left behind a financial mess and a debt burden of Rs 19,000 crore which we had to clean up," he said.
Entry into Congress
Recalling his entry into Congress in 2006 after leading the Ahinda movement, Siddaramaiah said late Congress strategist Ahmed Patel played a key role in introducing him to Sonia Gandhi. "After that introduction, several of my late colleagues including Manchenahalli Mahadeva, HY Meti, and I joined Congress. I am indebted to them and the party for the opportunity they provided me to become a two-time opposition leader and twice CM," he said.
