Mysore/Mysuru: While Opposition parties JD(S) and BJP are leading a padayatra from Bengaluru to Mysuru to protest against the Congress Government, and former CM B.S. Yediyurappa predicting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will resign by the time the march reaches Mysuru, the CM remained unfazed and was seen in a relaxed mood last evening.

Despite the political pressure, Siddaramaiah took a leisurely drive through Mysuru city in an SUV driven by former MLA H.P. Manjunath. Notably, he bypassed official protocol, travelling without a security detail or convoy.

Siddaramaiah visited the construction site of his new house in Kuvempunagar on Vishwamanava Double Road with Manjunath. After inspecting the progress, he enjoyed a hot coffee inside his car.

Siddaramaiah, a prominent political figure for four decades with terms as Dy.CM and CM, ironically did not own a house in Mysuru until now. The construction of his Kuvempunagar residence, which began two years ago on an 85×120 sq. ft. plot, is nearing completion.

The duplex house features a basement for vehicle parking, a ground floor for a meeting hall and office space, and bedrooms and halls on the first and second floors.

While Siddaramaiah has frequently visited Mysuru since becoming CM, his activities have been minimal. He has typically stayed at a house in T.K. Layout owned by his friend and close aide Mariswamy, where he conducts meetings, public interactions and media engagements.

Guest lecturers’ appeal

During the CM’s brief drive, guest lecturers from Mysore University met him requesting the Chief Minister that he instruct University authorities to continue their appointments. To support their demands, the guest lecturers initiated a night-long protest. Siddaramaiah assured them he would discuss the matter with Vice-Chancellor Prof. N.K. Lokanath.