Delhi visit, yes. National role? No, he says. Karnataka MLA? Certainly: What's next for Siddaramaiah

A year of speculation, high-octane politics and rumors of rift within the Karnataka Congress party came to an end on a Thursday afternoon when Veteran Congress leader Siddaramaiah tendered his resignation as the chief minister of the state paving way for DK Shivakumar to take over the reins.

With the deed done, Siddaramaiah is currently making his way to the national capital to meet with the party high command. But the question which reigns supreme over everyone's mind — What is in store for Siddaramaiah's political future?

Speaking to the press, Siddaramaiah said, "I have two more years as an MLA, I will serve my people. I will continue in active politics. I have given my resignation on my own accord."

He also clarified he has no interest in joining national politics , clearing stating, "They have asked me to Rajya Sabha, I have politely told them no, saying I want to remain in state politics and I am not interested in national politics."

Siddaramaiah was the longest-serving chief minister of Karnataka who decided to step down.

His political career began in 1978 when he contested a taluk board election, which required quite a bit of convincing his father. His father Siddarame Gowda had lost a gram panchayat election and was averse to politics.

He warned his son Siddaramaiah not to trust people in politics.

In a long career in electoral politics, Siddaramaiah has won nine out of 12 Assembly elections. He even tried his luck with national politics: he had unsuccessfully contested the Lok Sabha polls in 1991 from the Koppal constituency, dominated by the dominated by the Kuruba community that he belongs to.

Known for being administratively adept, Siddaramaiah holds the record of presenting 17 Budgets as the State’s Finance Minister.

Having joined the Janata Party and later Janata Dal, Siddaramaiah’s relationship with JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda is the stuff of legend. Gowda was once his mentor before becoming a bitter rival.

In all probability, Siddaramaiah will not contest the 2028 Assembly polls.