Mysuru, Oct 1 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, confidently stated on Wednesday that he will persist in offering floral tributes to goddess Chamundaeshwari during the upcoming Dussehra celebrations in future years.

This assertion is particularly important in light of comments made by certain Congress leaders and the BJP, suggesting that Deputy CM and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar would take over as CM in November.

While addressing the media at Mysuru Airport, Siddaramaiah responded to the opposition's claims that he might refrain from offering tributes during Dussehra, stating, "Opposition parties cannot predict the future. Their forecasts are unfounded and will not materialize. Everyone should adhere to the directives of party leadership. I am certain that I will continue to pay floral respects at the Dussehra festivities for years to come."

He added, "They said I wouldn’t serve as CM again or present the budget a second time. Yet, I did return as CM and presented the budget as well."

Recalling the recent inauguration of Dussehra by Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq, he remarked, "The Supreme Court has rebuked those who opposed the choice of this distinguished individual for the Dussehra inauguration, particularly those who seem unaware of the Constitution."

In light of the BJP's objections regarding the inauguration, Siddaramaiah emphasized that Karnataka is a secular state and that only those lacking constitutional understanding would raise such concerns. "This is why even the Supreme Court has criticized such opposition," he reiterated, urging that the Dussehra festival should remain free from political influence.

"A significant turnout is anticipated for this year’s Mysuru Dussehra. Attractions like the air show, illumination, and drone display have become increasingly popular. Dussehra is a festival of joy for the public. Given that institutions like the Chamundeshwari Development Authority and the Exhibition Authority are already in place, a separate Dussehra Authority is unnecessary."

When asked about outstanding dearness allowance payments for government employees, he indicated that the state government would release the allowance once the Central government does so.