Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly and Congress leader Siddaramaiah, who missed becoming the Chief Minister twice in his political career spanning over three decades, is a happy man today. He is a strong aspirant for the Chief Minister’s post. His supporters in the Mysore region are hoping to see him in the top slot.
Excerpts of his interaction with presspersons after his victory in Mysore on Wednesday:
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A. I thank the people for blessing the Congress and bringing it to power in the State. I also thank AICC president Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi.
Did you expect to win?
Absolutely. The people of Karnataka were fed up with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s governance.
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There was a clear wave against the BJP. My prediction of a BJP rout has come true.
How many seats did you expect to win?
I was sure of getting the majority. I had expected 125 seats and the party has come very close to that number.
What do you want to convey to the people?
The party will give a stable and clean government; a corruption-free governance.
Are you in the race for the CM’s post?
It is left to the party high command.
Have you spoken to the high command after the poll verdict?
No. If need be, I will go to New Delhi.
Was this your last electoral battle?
Yes, this was my last election.