Karnataka Deputy CM’s video singing RSS anthem sparks BJP-Congress war; Shivakumar asserts loyalty to Congress
Controversy Over DK Shivakumar Singing RSS Anthem in Assembly
A 73-second video surfaced showing Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar singing the RSS anthem “Namaste Sada Vatsale Matrubhume” inside the state assembly premises. The clip quickly stirred political debate, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticizing the Congress for its apparent contradictions regarding the RSS.
BJP Targets Congress Over Shivakumar’s Singing
- BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari shared the video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), mocking Congress leaders for singing the RSS anthem despite earlier criticisms of the RSS.
- Bhandari said, “Namaste Sada Vatsale Matribhume… DK Shivakumar seen singing the RSS anthem yesterday in the Karnataka assembly. Rahul Gandhi & close aides of Gandhi Vadra family straight into ICU/Coma mode now.”
- He also highlighted internal divisions within Congress and claimed many Congress leaders don’t take Rahul Gandhi seriously.
- Bhandari added, “After PM Modi praised RSS on Independence Day, majority of Congress leaders are now hailing the RSS.”
Shivakumar’s Clarification: Loyal to Congress, No BJP Alliance
Responding to the controversy, Shivakumar stated firmly:
“I am a born Congressman. As a leader, I should know my opponents and friends. I have studied about them. There is no question of joining hands with BJP. I will lead the Congress. I have been with the Congress since birth for life.”
Assembly Discussion and Shivakumar’s Comments on Stampede
During the assembly debate on the tragic stampede outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy stadium on June 4, Shivakumar dismissed opposition criticism and pointed out lapses by BJP-led governments elsewhere.
- He mentioned his close ties with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and his role in Bengaluru’s administration.
- He referred to his support for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL team after their first-ever victory, noting, “I held the Karnataka flag, wished them and kissed the cup. I did my job.”
- On the stampede that killed 11 people, he called it an unfortunate accident and declined to engage in political blame games despite criticism of officials.
Playful Moment: Shivakumar Sings RSS Anthem After R Ashoka’s Remark
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka remarked on Shivakumar’s past wearing of RSS shorts (previous RSS uniform). In response, Shivakumar sang the RSS anthem in a light-hearted, jovial manner, which added a humorous touch to the tense political atmosphere.
Summary
- DK Shivakumar was caught on video singing the RSS anthem in Karnataka Assembly.
- BJP used the clip to attack Congress on social media.
- Shivakumar reaffirmed his lifelong allegiance to Congress and rejected any BJP ties.
- The incident unfolded amid a heated assembly debate on a recent tragic stampede.
The video of DK Shivakumar singing the RSS anthem has intensified political debates in Karnataka, but Shivakumar’s firm stance on his loyalty to Congress clarifies his position amidst the controversy. As tensions rise between BJP and Congress, the incident highlights the complex dynamics within state politics.
