Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to become the longest-serving Chief Minister in the state’s history on January 7, when he completes seven years and 240 days in office across his terms. He will surpass the record held by former Chief Minister D Devaraj Urs, who served for seven years and 239 days.
Crediting the milestone to the “blessings of the people,” Siddaramaiah said he never imagined reaching such a position in his political career. Drawing a parallel between sports and politics, he remarked that records are meant to be broken, comparing his achievement to Indian cricketer Virat Kohli surpassing several records held by Sachin Tendulkar.
“I never said that no one can break my record. Someone may emerge to break my record of being the longest-serving Chief Minister or even the one who presented the maximum number of budgets,” Siddaramaiah said while speaking to reporters.
Reflections on His Political Journey
Siddaramaiah described it as a matter of pride that both he and Devaraj Urs hailed from Mysuru. Reflecting on his journey, he said he had never thought of becoming a minister, “let alone the Chief Minister.”
“I only thought I would become an MLA after serving as a Taluk Board member. I have won eight elections so far. I lost two Parliamentary elections and two Assembly elections. In total, I have contested 13 elections, including Taluk-level polls,” he said.
Drawing contrasts with Urs, Siddaramaiah pointed out that the former CM was from a forward and ruling class despite belonging to a numerically small community, yet remained a popular leader. He stressed that there should be no direct comparison between the two, noting that Urs belonged to a different political era.
“Devaraj Urs contested elections by collecting money directly from the people. People gave him money and votes in 1962. Times have changed now,” Siddaramaiah added.
Political Undercurrents in Congress
The milestone comes amid ongoing speculation over leadership within the Karnataka Congress, with Siddaramaiah reportedly engaged in a fluctuating power struggle with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar over the CM’s post. Other leaders are also seen as potential contenders.
State Home Minister G Parameshwara on December 31 clarified that any decision regarding the Chief Ministership lies solely with the Congress high command. He denied forming any faction or encouraging supporters to project him as a CM candidate.
“There is no ‘my team’. Some friends or well-wishers may express their views on their own. Even when I visit districts, some people say such things. It is their interest, but ultimately, the high command will take a decision,” Parameshwara said.
His remarks come at a time when the Karnataka Congress is witnessing intense speculation of an internal power tussle, with the Chief Minister’s post becoming a subject of debate after the government crossed its halfway mark. Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and G Parameshwara are being viewed as key figures amid the ongoing political churn.