Siddaramaiah Steps Down as Karnataka CM: Defends Voluntary Decision

BENGALURU: After stepping down from the post of Chief Minister, D. V. Sadananda Gowda's Lieutenant Governor designate, B.S. Yediyurappa's sworn-in minister—B.S. Rajanna Siddaramaiah, clarified that his decision was not influenced by external pressure but a choice made out of his own will. At a press conference attended by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Sivakumar and Minister of Home Dr G. Parameshwar, he expressed confidence in the Constitution and vowed to continue fighting against communal forces until 'his last breath.'

Siddaramaiah emphasized that there was no pressure from the high command to resign, stating instead, "I acted as per the direction of the high command," when asked if he had resigned voluntarily. He reiterated his commitment towards state politics, refusing a Rajya Sabha berth offered by the party leadership during a meeting in New Delhi and pledged that his future endeavors would be confined to the State.

Vow Against Communal Forces

At the press conference, Siddaramaiah strongly affirmed his stand against communalism, asserting, "I will continue my fight against communal forces besides striving for social equality." He underlined his belief in the Constitution, attributing his success to its existence. According to him, "If there was no constitution framed by Dr B.R. Ambedkar, I would have ended up grazing sheep without any formal education or opportunity to serve as MLA, DyCM, or CM."

Renewing his commitment to the people of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah vowed to fight for their continued social equality and against vested interests in case the Constitution is threatened. He concluded that it was a personal choice driven by an internal belief rather than seeking power or influence: "I never compromised with my values and ideologies," he said.