‘In politics till my last breath’ says Siddaramaiah, backs son as successor in his constituency

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday declared that he will remain active in politics till his “last breath,” reaffirming his commitment to public service while urging people of Varuna to support his son, Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah .

Addressing a gathering in Varuna Assembly constituency near Mysuru, Siddaramaiah reflected on his long political journey marked by both victories and defeats . “My political life has seen seven wins and four losses , but I have never forgotten to serve the people. Till today I have worked for the public to the best of my ability, and I will remain in politics till my last breath ,” he said.

Acknowledging that he cannot visit Varuna often due to his official duties, Siddaramaiah said his son Yathindra has been handling day-to-day affairs. Yathindra, who served as MLA from Varuna (2018-2023) , now seeks to continue his father’s work locally. “Like you nurtured me politically, you should also nurture Yathindra . I have faith and confidence that you will support him,” Siddaramaiah added.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the special place Varuna holds in his career , calling it his political fortress . He credited the constituency for his rise from a Minister in 1984 to Chief Minister twice and Leader of Opposition twice , noting that the support of Varuna’s people has been central to his 46-year-long political journey.

His remarks come amid speculations of a leadership tussle in Karnataka between Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar , with reports of a possible “power-sharing” understanding after the 2023 Assembly elections. By reinforcing his presence and urging support for his son, Siddaramaiah is signaling both continuity and the protection of his political legacy .

Recalling his early struggles, he said that through hard work, he became a lawyer and then a politician, rising to his current position thanks to the blessings of the people of Varuna and Mysuru.