Mysuru (Karnataka), Jan 6 (NationPress) In response to queries about his potential to complete his tenure and establish a new record as the longest-serving Chief Minister in Karnataka's history, Siddaramaiah emphasized on Tuesday that it hinges on the high command's decision. Notably, he has now matched the record previously held by the late D. Devaraj Urs.

When approached by journalists in Mysuru regarding his prospects of extending his tenure to become the longest-serving CM, Siddaramaiah expressed that it all depends on the high command's judgment, stating, 'I am uncertain about when they will make their decisions.'

Reassuring his trust in the high command, he remarked, 'I trust the high command. Without trust, how could I serve as CM?'

On his interaction with K.C. Venugopal, Siddaramaiah noted that Venugopal, who was traveling from Wayanad to Delhi via Bengaluru, made a courtesy call to him in Mysuru.

Addressing the matter of equaling former Chief Minister Devaraj Urs’ record, he clarified that he did not engage in politics with the intent to break records, stating it was coincidental. He admitted he was unaware of the duration of Urs’s term and credited the people’s support for enabling him to match this record.

In response to reports regarding his supporters distributing country chicken pulao, the Chief Minister claimed ignorance about the situation. He explained that in rural areas, cooking country chicken is customary when relatives visit. Coming from a rural background himself, he acknowledged enjoying such traditional foods. However, he remarked that as Chief Minister, this has garnered some publicity.

Siddaramaiah highlighted the ongoing societal inequality and reaffirmed his commitment to fight for the people until equity is achieved and justice is rendered for all.

Reflecting on his extensive political career, he expressed satisfaction and happiness in serving the populace, stating, 'Politics is about advocating for the poor, Dalits, and Backward Classes.' He recalled his journey from aspiring to be an MLA to becoming an MLA, minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and ultimately Chief Minister, attributing his success to the opportunities afforded to him.

Both he and Devaraj Urs, who served as Chief Minister from 1972 to 1980, share roots in Mysuru and have both held the position for extended periods, albeit at different times.

Regarding upcoming budgetary initiatives, Siddaramaiah advised patience, urging everyone to await the budget presentation.

On the topic of the Congress worker's death and related violence, he stated he would confer with the Home Minister. An investigation is ongoing, with several individuals already apprehended.

Responding to accusations from Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy concerning the incident, Siddaramaiah remarked that the JD(S) and BJP often engage in political rhetoric rather than legal discourse.