Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said he had "politely declined" an offer from the Congress high command to join the Rajya Sabha, asserting that he intends to remain active in state politics as an MLA from the Varuna constituency.
Speaking at a press conference at his residence "Krishna" shortly after submitting his resignation to the Governor's Special Secretary at Lok Bhavan, Siddaramaiah said he was not interested in moving to national politics.
"The high command asked me to go to the Rajya Sabha. I declined it humbly. I am not interested in national politics," he said.
He reiterated that he would continue to focus on Karnataka politics and fulfil the mandate given to him by voters.
"The people have elected me for five years, and two years are still left. Till then, I will work for the people of Karnataka and my constituency," he said.
Siddaramaiah added that he would use the remaining term to work on public welfare and continue his political engagement within the state.
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Responding to questions on his political future, the Congress leader said he would remain active in politics and continue to oppose "communal forces".
Addressing speculation over the circumstances of his resignation, he maintained that he had consistently stated he would step down whenever instructed by the party leadership.
When asked whether he faced pressure from the Congress high command, Siddaramaiah dismissed the suggestion.
"What pressure? I voluntarily resigned immediately after they asked me to do so," he said.