Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar warns of ban on pan masala, gutka if intoxicants found
The Chief Minister urged people, especially the youth, to actively participate in efforts against addiction and support the campaign for a drug-free state.
Even as the Congress weighs its next move in Karnataka, DK Shivakumar on Friday paid tribute to Siddaramaiah, crediting the outgoing chief minister for his leadership and describing him as a guiding force within the party.
The remarks come at a politically significant moment, with Shivakumar emerging as a leading contender for the chief minister’s post after Siddaramaiah stepped down on Thursday. The transition has revived discussions around the Congress leadership structure in Karnataka, where both leaders have long been seen as the party’s two most influential faces.
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In a message posted on X, Shivakumar reflected on Siddaramaiah’s decades-long public life and said success is shaped not by destiny alone but by how opportunities are used.
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“God does not give boons or curses. He only gives opportunities. What truly matters is what we make of those opportunities,” Shivakumar wrote, adding that Siddaramaiah’s life exemplified that belief.
He said the outgoing chief minister’s tenure would be remembered for welfare initiatives, development programmes and governance focused on ordinary citizens.
According to Shivakumar, the impact of several public welfare schemes and developmental measures introduced under Siddaramaiah’s leadership would remain an important part of Karnataka’s growth story. He also credited the former chief minister with helping shape the state’s political and social landscape through nearly five decades of public service.
Siddaramaiah’s journey in Karnataka politics
- Rose from a village in Mysuru district to become one of Karnataka’s most influential leaders.
- Served multiple terms in key ministerial roles before becoming chief minister.
- Known for welfare-focused governance and social justice initiatives.
- Remained a central figure in Karnataka politics for nearly five decades.
- Stepped down as chief minister on May 28, triggering a leadership transition in the state.
What DK Shivakumar said about Siddaramaiah
Shivakumar also highlighted their political partnership within the Congress, recalling that Siddaramaiah stood by him after he was appointed Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president in 2020.
Calling him a “pillar of strength”, Shivakumar said the two leaders had worked together to strengthen the party and expand its reach across the state.
“It has been a privilege to serve alongside him as Deputy Chief Minister and to continuously learn from his experience, wisdom and political foresight,” he said, expressing hope that Siddaramaiah’s guidance would continue to benefit the party and the state in the years ahead.
God does not give boons or curses. He only gives opportunities. What truly matters is what we make of those opportunities.
Shri Siddaramaiah avaru’s life is one of the finest reflections of this thought. From a humble village in Mysuru to leading Karnataka as Chief Minister, his… https://t.co/cWZy9eQ48o
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) May 29, 2026
Siddaramaiah remains caretaker chief minister
Ending his message with a reference to collective leadership, Shivakumar quoted a popular saying: “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. If you want to walk far, walk together.”
“I look forward to carrying this journey forward together for the people of Karnataka,” he said.
Siddaramaiah resigned as chief minister on Thursday, after which Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted his resignation and dissolved the Council of Ministers. The veteran leader has been asked to continue as caretaker chief minister until alternative arrangements are made.
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