Siddaramaiah Quits Electoral Politics, Cites Age and 'Polluted' Politics
Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced his retirement from electoral politics, stating that he will not contest the 2028 Assembly elections. However, he affirmed that he will remain active in public life and continue to work for the Congress party and the people.
The announcement was made on Saturday during the 86th birth anniversary celebration of former Speaker 'K R Pet' Krishna in Mandya district. When supporters urged him to continue for another decade, Siddaramaiah, who represents the Varuna constituency, firmly stated his decision not to seek re-election.
His remarks led to appeals from the audience to reconsider, disappointing many supporters and loyalists who wish to see the 79-year-old leader continue in active electoral politics. Siddaramaiah, Karnataka's longest-serving Chief Minister, reiterated his commitment to remain politically active despite stepping away from electoral contests.
After stepping down as Chief Minister in May to make way for D.K. Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah had earlier stated he would serve the people and take up any responsibility assigned by the Congress high command. He also declined a reported Rajya Sabha offer, expressing no interest in national politics.
In a Facebook post, Siddaramaiah explained that the changing nature of politics influenced his decision. "Politics has become polluted. Therefore, I have decided not to contest the 2028 Assembly elections. However, I will remain active in politics, stay with the people and continue to support them," he wrote.
Reflecting on his political journey, he noted that he entered public life in 1978 as a member of the Taluk Board and will complete 50 years in politics in 2028. "I have witnessed both victory and defeat, but I have never compromised on my ideology or betrayed my conscience. That gives me immense satisfaction," he said.
Expressing concern about the current political climate, he said honest politics has become increasingly difficult. "There was a time when people voluntarily contributed money to help me contest elections. Today, the situation has changed, wherein money has to be given to people if one contests elections. There is no scope for honest politics. Considering this reality, along with my age and health, I have decided not to contest elections," he stated.
Siddaramaiah noted that he will be around 80 or 81 when the next Assembly term begins and acknowledged that advancing age and health considerations would limit his ability to work with the same energy. He thanked the people of Karnataka for their unwavering support over the past five decades, saying, "The people of Karnataka have treated me as one among them and showered me with love and affection. I remain indebted to them and will continue to work for their welfare."
