Did Not Attend ABVP Event, Only Paid Tribute to Rani Abbakka: Karnataka Home Minister Dr. Parameshwara
Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara on Thursday firmly denied allegations that he participated in an Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) event held in Tiptur on September 2, clarifying that he had only paid floral tribute to Rani Abbakka during a passing procession.
The ABVP, student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), had organised a large-scale event to commemorate the 500th birth anniversary of Veerarani Abbakka, which included a torch-lit procession and car festival through the streets of Tiptur in Tumakuru district.
According to reports, as the procession—featuring a statue of the freedom fighter on a decorated vehicle—crossed paths with Dr. Parameshwara’s convoy, the Minister, accompanied by local MLA Shadakshari, was invited by organisers to offer floral tribute. The Minister complied, then continued on his journey.
Facing questions from reporters in Bengaluru on Thursday, Dr. Parameshwara clarified his position:
“I did not take part in any ABVP event. While travelling through Tiptur, we encountered their procession. Since it was a tribute to a respected freedom fighter, I was asked to offer flowers, and I did. That was it.”
He dismissed the controversy as an unnecessary political provocation and reaffirmed his commitment to the Congress party.
“This won’t affect me. I’m a true Congressman and will remain one till my last breath,” he stated.
The Minister also addressed internal criticism, suggesting that even within the party, some may choose to misrepresent actions for political reasons.
“It’s natural for a politician to have opponents—even from within. But the people of Karnataka know me well. I’ve been in politics for 35 years and don’t need to prove my integrity repeatedly,” he said.
The clarification comes amid attempts by political opponents and online platforms to portray the brief interaction as a formal endorsement of the ABVP’s event.
Source: PTI
