Karnataka: Siddaramaiah’s Resigns; “Party Above Self, People Above Power,” Says K.C. Venugopal

Bengaluru (IANS): Following Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s resignation and the state’s swift political developments, AICC General Secretary (Organisation) and Member of Parliament K.C. Venugopal stated on Friday that the Congress party always places itself and the people above positions of power.

Venugopal posted on the social media platform X: “Party above self, people above power – because for Congress, the party is our family and the people are the purpose.”

He made these remarks after Siddaramaiah resigned as Chief Minister, a resignation that Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot subsequently accepted.

Observers view Venugopal’s statement as a clear message highlighting the Congress party’s discipline and collective leadership during this political transition.

The Governor has asked Siddaramaiah to continue as caretaker Chief Minister until the state makes alternative arrangements.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader and former minister Priyank Kharge paid an emotional tribute to the former Chief Minister on Friday. Kharge described Siddaramaiah as a leader who earned the people’s love and trust through welfare-oriented governance, ideological commitment, and political struggles.

In a statement, Kharge noted that Siddaramaiah created a record as one of Karnataka’s longest-serving Chief Ministers and became a true people’s leader through the Congress party’s pro-people programmes and principled political stand.

Kharge added that from the very beginning of his political career, Siddaramaiah remained committed to constitutional values, secularism, and socialist principles, setting high standards in public life and enlightened politics.

“Leaders of our generation and future young politicians look up to him as an inspiration,” Kharge stated.

Recalling Siddaramaiah’s role in his own political journey, Kharge explained that the former Chief Minister actively guided and mentored him. He noted that Siddaramaiah instilled confidence in him when the party entrusted him with important portfolios like Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Tourism at a young age, ensuring he never hesitated as one of the youngest ministers in the cabinet.

“He not only encouraged me but also gave me the freedom to formulate people-centric programmes. Even during the present term, his guidance remained valuable while handling two major portfolios,” Kharge said.

Kharge further asserted that under Siddaramaiah’s leadership, the Congress government in Karnataka delivered corruption-free governance and development-oriented administration. He added that the government’s guarantee schemes economically empowered the people.

“It is a matter of pride for me to have served as a minister in the cabinet of such a statesmanlike leader,” he remarked.

Calling Siddaramaiah’s exit an emotional moment for Congress leaders and supporters, Kharge urged party workers to remember his contributions and continue strengthening the party under his guidance.

“Let us protect the state from communal forces by further strengthening the Congress party under his leadership and guidance,” he said.

Kharge concluded by describing Siddaramaiah’s political journey “from Siddaramanahundi to Vidhana Soudha” as an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.