Siddaramaiah Declines Rajya Sabha Seat to Focus on State Politics

Siddaramaiah, recently stepping down from his role as Chief Minister of Karnataka, has declined an offer from the Congress leadership to take up a Rajya Sabha seat. The seasoned politician expressed his desire to continue his active involvement in the state's political landscape, at least for the next two years of his current term as the Varuna constituency MLA.

Speaking at a press conference at his residence shortly after submitting his resignation, Siddaramaiah emphasized his commitment to local governance, stating, "I will remain in state politics. The people have elected me for five years, and two years are still left. Till then, I will work for the people of Karnataka and for the people of my constituency." Additionally, he dismissed any speculation about external pressure influencing his resignation, reinforcing that he stepped down as per the party's request.

(With inputs from agencies.)