Deputy Chief Minister recalls missing the top post on multiple occasions and reflects on key political turning points in Karnataka
Tumakuru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara has openly spoken about his long-standing aspiration to become Chief Minister, expressing disappointment over missing the opportunity on multiple occasions due to political developments and electoral outcomes.
Addressing a public programme in Tumakuru, Parameshwara reflected on crucial moments in Karnataka politics and said circumstances prevented him from reaching the state's highest political office despite being a strong contender at different stages of his career.
Parameshwara Reflects on Missed Chief Ministerial Opportunities
Speaking candidly about his political journey, the Deputy Chief Minister said his defeat in the 2013 Assembly elections proved to be a decisive turning point.
According to Parameshwara, had he secured victory in that election, the political scenario within the Congress party would likely have been different.
"If I had won the 2013 election, Siddaramaiah would not have become Chief Minister," Parameshwara remarked while recalling the events that followed the Assembly polls.
The statement has drawn attention within political circles as it offers a rare glimpse into internal leadership dynamics during a significant phase of Karnataka politics.
2018 Coalition Government Mentioned by Deputy CM
Parameshwara also revisited the political developments that unfolded after the 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections. He noted that although the Congress secured around 80 seats, the formation of the coalition government resulted in H. D. Kumaraswamy becoming Chief Minister.
The senior Congress leader said there had been expectations within sections of the party that he could be considered for the position. However, the coalition arrangement ultimately led to a different outcome.
"There was an opportunity then as well, but it did not materialise," he said while reflecting on the coalition-era political negotiations.
Parameshwara Opens Up About 2026 Political Developments
The Deputy Chief Minister further revealed that he had harboured hopes of being considered for the Chief Minister's post during the political developments of 2026.
Recalling discussions with the party leadership, Parameshwara said he had conveyed his views directly to the high command. However, political circumstances eventually resulted in him being entrusted with the responsibility of Deputy Chief Minister.
He emphasised that organisational growth and party interests remained his priority and indicated that he accepted the leadership's decision in the larger interest of the Congress party.
Deputy CM Pledges Responsible Governance
Despite expressing disappointment over missed opportunities, Parameshwara reiterated his commitment to serving the people in his current role.
He stated that public representatives are under constant scrutiny and must function responsibly while fulfilling the expectations of citizens. The Deputy Chief Minister assured that he would continue working collectively with colleagues and stakeholders to ensure effective governance.
"People are watching us closely. We must discharge our responsibilities with commitment and accountability," he said.
Political Significance of Parameshwara's Remarks
Parameshwara's comments have generated political discussion in Karnataka, particularly because they revisit key leadership decisions spanning more than a decade. As one of the Congress party's senior-most leaders in the state, his remarks offer insight into the internal political calculations that shaped government formation in 2013, 2018, and subsequent years.
While the Deputy Chief Minister acknowledged his disappointment, he maintained that he would continue to work for the party and the state in the role assigned to him.
