Mandya (Karnataka), Dec 6 (NationPress) In a bid to address his earlier controversial remarks regarding religious leaders meddling in politics, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy publicly expressed his sincere apologies to Vokkaliga seer Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji on Saturday.

The apology was made with folded hands in front of the Adichunchanagiri seer during an agricultural fair at VC Farm in Mandya. The seer graciously accepted the apology, drawing applause and cheers from the audience.

Kumaraswamy stated, “If my previous comments caused any disrespect to the Swamiji, I seek forgiveness publicly. Our loyalty is heartfelt and does not require external display. If I have wronged the esteemed Swamiji, I humbly ask for his pardon.”

He elaborated, “I intended to convey that such Swamijis should be kept out of these matters, as it’s important they do not encounter disrespect.”

Previously, amid the leadership conflict in Karnataka involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, influential Vokkaliga seer Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji had shown support for Shivakumar, the State Congress President.

The seer had remarked that the Congress leadership should acknowledge Shivakumar’s contributions and make a decision to appoint him as Chief Minister. He also highlighted the community's desire to see Shivakumar in that role.

Notably, Deputy CM Shivakumar is considered a major rival of Kumaraswamy.

Shivakumar was pivotal in rallying Vokkaliga votes in southern Karnataka—traditionally a stronghold for the JD(S)—toward the Congress party during the last Assembly elections. Both leaders belong to the Vokkaliga community.

Kumaraswamy, while avoiding naming the seer, remarked, “Politicians should engage in politics, while religious leaders should refrain from this temptation. Their intervention is unwarranted during the internal struggles of the Congress party.”

“Politicians should handle political matters, and religious leaders should not feel compelled to express their opinions in favor of any individual. The involvement of Swamiji in Congress’s internal disputes is unnecessary, as they have no place in it,” he asserted.

Kumaraswamy expressed dissatisfaction regarding the ongoing power struggle, stating, “Having served as Chief Minister twice, I never sought the assistance of any religious leaders when I lost power. Politicians have their responsibilities, and Swamijis have theirs. It is inappropriate for anyone to exploit religious institutions for political gain under the guise of caste or religion.”

He urged religious leaders to, “Eliminate any potential for caste conflict within society. No one should bear the blame for it. I request the Swamijis to foster peace and harmony, and to refrain from involving caste and religion in politics, as it is detrimental to the state.”

Kumaraswamy further remarked, “Caste politics is rampant in the state. While politicians may not feel the repercussions, the state will endure severe consequences. The internal discord within the Congress party is inciting social unrest, which reflects not only on the Congress party but also on the citizens of Karnataka.”

He concluded by stating that even during his two tenures as Chief Minister, he never sought help from religious leaders.