Confident of completing full term, but decision left to high command, asserts Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who equalled former Chief Minister D. Devaraj Urs’ record of longest tenure as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Tuesday (January 6, 2026), expressed confidence of completing the ensuing term of the Assembly at the helm.

Replying to queries from reporters in Mysuru, Mr. Siddaramaiah, however, said a decision on completing the current term will depend on the decision of the party High Command.

With regard to his meeting with All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary K C Venugopal in Mysuru on January 5, 2026, Mr. Siddaramaiah said Mr. Venugopal was travelling from Wayanad to Delhi via Bengaluru and the two leaders had a courtesy meeting in Mysuru. With regard to the proposed Cabinet reshuffle, Mr. Siddaramaiah said he would take it up when he receives a call from Delhi.

He further said his aim was not to break any record. “This record has happened coincidentally. I did not even know how many years Devaraj Urs had governed. With the blessings of the people, it has been possible to equal his record.” Expressing satisfaction over his long political career, Mr. Siddaramaiah said working for the people gives him happiness. “Politics means working for the poor, Dalits, and backward classes,” he said.

He said he initially aspired to become an MLA and became one. Later, he got opportunities to become a Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and Chief Minister. “All this was possible because I got opportunities,” Mr. Siddaramaiah said.

In Bengaluru, when his reaction was sought to Mr. Siddaramaiah’s assertion of completing term, his deputy D.K. Shivakumar, who is vying for the top post, said, “I wish Siddaramaiah well. I wish him all the best and good luck.” Asked if his statement would not create confusion, he said, “You (media) are confusing it, there is no confusion amongst us.”