Daijiworld Media Network – Shivamogga
Shivamogga, Sep 28: In a candid and decisive statement, actor and former Congress Lok Sabha candidate Geetha Shivarajkumar has announced that she will no longer contest in any elections, marking a significant exit from electoral politics. Geetha, the daughter-in-law of Kannada cinema icon Dr Rajkumar and wife of actor Shivarajkumar, made the declaration during the swearing-in ceremony of Shivamogga district Congress president Shwetha Bandi.
“That’s enough… I will not contest any more elections,” Geetha said, addressing party workers. “But I will continue to stand with all of you. I will definitely return during the next elections to campaign,” she assured.
Her remarks come just a year after her electoral debut in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Shivamogga on a Congress ticket, where she faced defeat. Despite the result, her candidacy had generated significant attention due to her celebrity background and the Congress’s efforts to revive its influence in the region.
Geetha had earlier lost in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when she contested from Shivamogga as a JD(S) candidate. Despite that setback, she remained a public figure in local politics and later switched allegiance, contesting under the Congress banner in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Reaffirming her commitment to public service, Geetha said her political journey may have taken a different turn, but her support for the party and its people remains strong.
She also delivered a powerful message on women’s empowerment: “Women are not weak—every woman is strong. If given power and opportunity, women can accomplish anything,” she said, drawing applause from the crowd.
In a direct message to the public and party workers, Geetha encouraged them to be proactive in seeking government support and resolving issues at the local level.
“If you have any problems or difficulties, reach out to minister Madhu Bangarappa. Hold him accountable and ensure your work gets done,” she advised, highlighting the importance of accessible leadership.
Geetha’s statement adds a new dimension to the Congress's local leadership dynamics in Shivamogga. Though stepping away from contesting, her continued involvement in party activities — especially campaigning — suggests she will remain a visible figure within the party fold.
Her decision not to contest again may also influence future candidate selection strategies in the region, especially given the Congress’s ongoing efforts to engage voters beyond traditional political backgrounds.