Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar Apologises for Singing RSS Anthem in Assembly

Bengaluru, August 26: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and KPCC president D.K. Shivakumar on Monday issued an apology after triggering controversy for singing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) anthem, Namaste Sada Vatsale Matribhume, in the State Assembly during the recent monsoon session.

Speaking to the media, Shivakumar said his action was spontaneous and not politically motivated. He expressed regret if it had upset anyone within the Congress party or its allies in the INDIA bloc.

“I have been with the Congress party since 1980, and my faith in the Gandhi family and the party remains firm. My political journey is defined by Congress values, and I have no association with any other ideology,” he clarified.

The Deputy CM further pointed out that his decision to apologise was not influenced by directions from the Congress high command. “No one asked me to tender an apology. I chose to do so because I respect the sentiments of my colleagues,” he said.

Shivakumar’s surprise rendition of the RSS anthem inside the Assembly had raised eyebrows and triggered sharp reactions from political opponents as well as within his own party. Critics called his move “uncharacteristic” of a senior Congress leader, especially at a time when the party has been strongly opposing the Sangh Parivar’s ideology.

With his apology, Shivakumar has sought to settle the row, reaffirming his commitment to the Congress organisation and its ideological path.

Source: The Hindu