Yathindra Siddaramaiah Defends Cabinet Role as Voice of Kuruba Community
BENGALURU — Newly appointed Cabinet Minister Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah has defended his induction into the state cabinet, asserting that he represents the Kuruba community and is not solely his father's nominee. Speaking in Bengaluru, the 45-year-old leader addressed criticisms surrounding his political rise and outlined his plans for his new administrative roles.
Yathindra, who was a political recluse in 2016, has transitioned into a cabinet minister and the house leader in the council. His induction comes after serving as a one-time MLA and a one-time MLC, which had led some to question his swift appointment to the cabinet.
Addressing these questions, Yathindra stated that the political high command decided to induct him just before his father, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stepped down from his post. He explained that his appointment serves a dual purpose as both his father's nominee and a representative of the Kuruba community. According to Yathindra, the move was intended to pacify the community, which was dismayed by his father being asked to vacate the chief ministerial post.
Acknowledging the difficulty of stepping out of his father's shadow, Yathindra described the former chief minister as a once-in-a-generation leader. He stated that he does not intend to copy his father but aims to carve out his own political identity by remaining true to his ideology and commitment. He added that he intends to have a long career in politics.
As the newly appointed minister for the Urban Development Department (UDD), Yathindra faces a tight timeline. He noted that only one and a half years remain for active governance, as the final six months before the 2028 elections will be dedicated to campaign preparations. He emphasized the need to fast-track and complete ongoing urban development projects on time.
In addition to his ministerial portfolio, Yathindra is taking on the role of house leader in the council. He described this responsibility as a major challenge, noting that it requires managing the opposition and responding directly to people's representatives.
Yathindra also discussed his commitment to the AHINDA movement, stating that the movement is larger than any single leader. While his father will continue to be the face of AHINDA, Yathindra expressed hope that new leaders committed to the ideology will emerge to carry it forward.
