Shivakumar Defends His Participation in Isha Foundation's Shivratri Event

Synopsis

Bengaluru, Feb 27 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar addressed the controversy regarding his visit to the Isha Foundation for Mahashivratri, emphasizing that his faith is personal and should not be politicized. He also commented on Sadhguru's views and political dynamics in his constituency.

Key Takeaways

Shivakumar insists his faith is personal.
He dismisses the media's focus on his beliefs.
Comments made by Sadhguru are not his concern.
Religion should not influence politics.
His constituency supports him across various communities.

Bengaluru, Feb 27 (NationPress) In light of the controversy regarding his attendance at the Isha Foundation and sharing a platform with Union Minister Amit Shah during the Mahashivratri festivities, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that he remains unfazed by critiques, as this is a matter of personal faith.

At the launch of a Book Fair at the Vidhana Soudha premises on Thursday night, Shivakumar elaborated, “I attended the Shivratri festival out of my belief. I will not engage with social media narratives. Let thousands oppose me; it is my faith.”

When questioned about the BJP's approval of his involvement, Shivakumar stated that he did not seek comments from either the BJP or the Congress.

“There’s no necessity for the media to discuss my actions. This pertains to my personal beliefs,” he reiterated.

In response to Sadhguru’s remarks about Rahul Gandhi, Shivakumar noted: “I am unaware of those comments. Sadhguru, who comes from our state—specifically Mysuru—has been active in the save Cauvery River campaign and is now advocating for the ‘Save Soil’ initiative. He intends to promote beneficial work within our state.”

He further shared, “Sadhguru personally visited my home to invite me to the event with honor. I value his speeches and perspectives. However, I am not informed about his comments regarding Rahul Gandhi. I will seek the details. Everyone has the right to express their opinions.”

On his previous controversial declaration of being born a Hindu and remaining one, Shivakumar remarked, “Why should I convert to another faith? I hold respect for all religions and believe in humanity. Can one select their religion at birth via an application?”

He added: “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was born a Hindu and later adopted Buddhism; that was his personal choice. If the BJP wishes to debate me, let them. What is the relationship between politics and the Maha Kumbh Mela? Does water have a caste? Attending such events is not a communal matter. The Ganga and Cauvery rivers are sacred to us. Religion has attributed sanctity to them, but beyond that, there is no political dimension. I urge that personal matters not be politicized.

He further commented on the political backing in his constituency, declaring, “In my constituency, 90 percent of SCs and STs cast votes for me. Ninety-nine percent of Brahmins support me. Can we label all Brahmins as BJP affiliates? The Congress is inclusive. Whenever positions are distributed, all faiths and communities are considered.”

Criticizing the BJP, he questioned, “Why was the BJP unable to dissolve the Christian Development Board or the Waqf Board? It wasn't feasible because these are constitutional rights. Do we consume different water? Share different land? Breathe different air?”