BENGALURU: Veteran Congress leader and outgoing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday firmly declined the Congress high command’s offer of a Rajya Sabha seat, declaring that he has “no interest in national politics” and wishes to continue serving in active state politics.  Political experts say that this decision of the veteran actor would be most unexpected by the party's central leadership, who would be surprised by the decline of the offer.

Speaking to reporters shortly after submitting his resignation as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah made it clear that he preferred to remain in Karnataka and complete his term as MLA from Varuna constituency. “The high command offered me a Rajya Sabha seat. I politely declined it. I have no interest in national politics. I want to remain in Karnataka politics,” he said.

The statement comes on the same day Siddaramaiah formally resigned from the post of Chief Minister, ending his second stint in the top job. He submitted his resignation letter to Prabhu Shankar, Special Secretary to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, at Lok Bhavan this afternoon.

Sources within the Congress indicate that the party high command had offered Siddaramaiah a Rajya Sabha berth along with a possible prominent role at the national level as part of the leadership transition plan that saw Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar positioned to take over as the next Chief Minister. However, the 78-year-old leader, known for his strong roots in state politics, chose to stay away from Delhi.

“I will continue in active politics. I still have two years left as an MLA. I will serve the people of Karnataka,” Siddaramaiah added. He also expressed gratitude to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi for giving him the opportunity to serve as Chief Minister.

Siddaramaiah’s decision puts to rest weeks of speculation about his future role. Many believed he might be eased into the Upper House to facilitate a smooth transition and avoid any possible factional unrest in the state unit. By rejecting the offer, the veteran leader has signalled his desire to remain a powerful voice in Karnataka politics, especially with the 2028 Assembly elections on the horizon.

Political observers view this move as a reflection of Siddaramaiah’s deep commitment to state-level issues and his Ahinda (Backward Classes, Minorities, and Dalits) politics, which has defined his long career. His government was credited with launching several ambitious welfare schemes such as Gruha Jyothi, Shakti, and Anna Bhagya.

Congress leaders described the entire transition as cordial and smooth. D.K. Shivakumar, who is widely expected to be sworn in as Chief Minister soon, was present during key meetings today and has maintained that the party remains united.

Siddaramaiah’s decision to stay in state politics is likely to strengthen his influence within the Karnataka Congress even after stepping down as CM. With his vast experience and mass base, he is expected to play a mentoring as well as an active organisational role in the coming years.