Siddaramaiah Declares Exit from Electoral Politics
Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on July 26, 2026, that he will not contest the 2028 state assembly elections, describing the current state of politics as deeply polluted. The 79-year-old Congress Working Committee member made the statement during a private event in KR Pet, Mandya district, and later reiterated it in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
"Politics has become deeply polluted today, and for that reason I will not contest the 2028 Assembly elections. However, I will remain active in politics and continue to be a voice for the people's hardships and well-being," Siddaramaiah wrote.
Citizen Pressure and Personal Reasons
Siddaramaiah acknowledged that voters in his home constituency, Varuna in Mysuru district, were urging him to run again. But he stated firmly, "I have decided that I should not contest any more elections." He contrasted the current scenario with earlier campaigns when supporters funded his elections, noting that such grassroots support has diminished.
Citing his age, he said, "I am now 79 years old. Our government's term has another year and a half remaining. By then, I will be 81-82 years old. My health may not remain as strong as it is now, and I may not be able to work with the same energy and enthusiasm as before."
Political Journey and Principles
Reflecting on his five-decade career, Siddaramaiah noted that he began as a Taluk Board member in 1978. By 2028, he will have completed 50 years in public life. "I have seen both victory and defeat, but I have the satisfaction of never acting against the principles I believed in or betraying my conscience," he said.
The seasoned politician criticized the rising cost of elections, claiming that politicians now have to pay constituents to be able to contest. "Politics today has become highly corrupted. Honest politics seems to have little room to survive. In this context, I have decided not to contest any future elections," he added.
Dedication to Public Service
Despite stepping away from electoral contests, Siddaramaiah vowed to dedicate the rest of his life to public service. "For five decades, the people of this state have treated me as one among them and have showered me with affection and support. I remain indebted to them. Therefore, I will dedicate the rest of my life to public service," he said.
This announcement comes after his resignation as Chief Minister on May 28, 2026, following directives from the Congress high command, which paved the way for D K Shivakumar to take over the top post. Siddaramaiah had earlier declined a Rajya Sabha seat offered by the party leadership, stating his desire to remain active in state politics rather than national politics.
In the 2023 assembly elections, Siddaramaiah had indicated that it might be his last electoral contest. He contested from Varuna and won, subsequently serving as Chief Minister until his resignation.
