Former Karnataka CM SM Krishna Hangs Up His Boots After A Six-Decade Long Stint In Politics

Former Karnataka CM S M Krishna has announced his retirement from politics. Addressing the media on the occasion of New Year's Day, he said he was retiring from public life, as it was important that one is aware of one's age.

"I am 90 years old and at this age I cant act like a 50 year old, hence I will gradually withdraw from public life," said Krishna.

His retirement announcement comes at a time when he clearly is the tallest standing leader from his community apart from the JD(S) Supremo H D Devegowda and all parties in the state are out to woo this his second largest votebank—the Vokkaliga community.

His response to the media questions although aimed at sounding like all is well, hint at disappointment, say observers. " I shall not go and give any unsolicited advice. If they consult me about the party organisation and the like in Old Mysuru region, I shall provide," he was heard saying.

Long time Congressman and mentor of current KPCC Chief D K Shivakumar Krishna's entry into the BJP in the run upto the last elections was said to be one that would bring in the Vokkaliga votes. For he was the tallest standing leader although not a 'typical' representative one with his 'urban avatar' a tad too distant for the predominantly agrarian community.

In the Lok Sabha elections that followed too, Krishna threw his weight behind the party to ensure " Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister once again". In contrast, as he announced his retirement Krishna sounded miffed and gave room for speculations saying all was certainly not well between him and the saffron party.

"Where is the question of being ignored when I am retiring myself", he. remarked, on being asked if he was ignored by the BJP. Responding to the question about informing the party high command, he quipped saying " No one provides pension in politics. So there is no need for me to inform the high command of my retirement".