Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced his decision not to contest the 2028 state assembly elections, citing health issues, advancing age, and the pervasive corruption in politics.

In a social media post, he stated that at 79 years old, his physical condition has deteriorated, making it difficult to engage in the same level of political activity as before.He also highlighted the 'corrupted arena of politics' as a key reason for his withdrawal.Despite stepping down, Siddaramaiah emphasized his commitment to public service, vowing to remain active in advocating for people's concerns.His decision comes after being replaced by DK Shivakumar in June 2026.

The 2028 elections are significant as the Congress party, led by Siddaramaiah, achieved a historic landslide victory in 2023, securing 135 seats out of 224.

The announcement underscores the challenges faced by veteran politicians in balancing personal health with political responsibilities in an increasingly corrupt political landscape.

Siddaramaiah also mentioned that his 50-year political journey, starting in 1978, has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks, but he remains steadfast in his principles.This decision reflects broader trends of older leaders stepping back from active politics while continuing to influence public discourse.