Bengaluru: Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Thursday made it clear that he would continue in Karnataka politics and had no plans to shift to national politics after stepping down as Chief Minister of the state.

Addressing a press conference shortly after submitting his resignation, Siddaramaiah said the Congress high command had suggested that he move to the Rajya Sabha, but he politely declined the proposal. “I am not interested in national politics. I will continue in state politics,” he said.

The veteran leader further stated that the people of his constituency had elected him as their MLA and that his tenure still has two years remaining. He said he would continue serving both his constituency and the people of Karnataka.

Amid intense political speculation over the leadership transition, Siddaramaiah refrained from revealing the name of his successor. Responding to repeated questions from reporters, he said the decision on the next Chief Minister would be taken by the Congress high command.

Sources within the party indicated that the Congress leadership had been engaged in discussions over a possible change in leadership for the past several days, with consultations taking place at multiple levels before the resignation was finalised.

Political observers believe Siddaramaiah’s statement signals his intention to remain an active force in Karnataka politics rather than move to a ceremonial or national role. Following his resignation, attention has now shifted to the Congress high command’s next move and the selection of the new Chief Minister.