Will Rahul Gandhi Stand Firm Against Possible Imprisonment? Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar Responds
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Synopsis
In a bold stance, Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar asserts that Rahul Gandhi will not yield to political persecution, even if faced with imprisonment. This article delves into the ongoing National Herald case and highlights the implications of governmental actions against opposition leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi's determination to resist political harassment.
- The role of the Central government in alleged political vendetta.
- The historical context of the National Herald and its significance to the Congress party.
- Shivakumar's defense of Gandhi as a custodian rather than a personal owner.
- The broader implications for opposition politics in India.
Bengaluru, Dec 1 (NationPress) In light of the FIR lodged against Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, regarding the National Herald matter, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar emphasized on Monday that Rahul Gandhi will remain steadfast, even if incarceration is imposed.
"The Central government is exploiting investigative bodies to target Rahul Gandhi out of political retribution," he stated, criticizing the BJP-led Union government.
In response to media questions at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar remarked: "This is unjust. There is a limit to the amount of harassment anyone can endure. There is no justification for harassing him (Rahul Gandhi) in this (National Herald) matter. The National Herald does not belong to Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi personally. They served as custodians of the institution's shares due to their roles as Congress President."
"Even Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and I hold the presidency of various boards and corporations. As Presidents, we have at least one or two shares registered in our names. Once our terms conclude, these shares are reassigned. Likewise, our leaders, having served as Presidents of the Congress party, have managed the National Herald institution as a tradition inherited from former PM Jawaharlal Nehru," he continued.
"Whether it involves Young Indian or National Herald, the Gandhis have already made it clear that none of these assets are their personal possessions. They belong to the Congress party, and they act solely as custodians for the party. Numerous members are involved. During Morarji Desai and Ahmed Patel's tenure, critical decisions were made for the benefit of the Congress party," Shivakumar elaborated.
"During the crisis under Sitaram Kesari's leadership, when the party faced decline, we Congress leaders implored Sonia Gandhi to take on the responsibility of leading the party. After she assumed control, our party governed for a decade, followed by another decade with an economist at the forefront," he added.
"This is solely an effort to politically harass us. History tends to repeat itself. Even if they confine Rahul Gandhi to prison, it will not disrupt him. This politics of animosity by the Central government is misguided. I want to convey to the Centre that they will gain nothing from this. It will only tarnish the moral credibility of the Central government. Let us engage in politics directly with the populace. Let’s contest elections. However, utilizing investigative agencies to harass individuals in such a manner is intolerable," he asserted.
"This is straightforwardly political torture. It stems from jealousy. Rahul Gandhi remains unfazed by these developments. He is indifferent to the prospect of imprisonment. Such vindictive politics will only undermine the ethical values of the BJP," Shivakumar added.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked that the BJP is engaged in political vengeance against Rahul Gandhi.
Point of View
The ongoing situation surrounding Rahul Gandhi embodies a pivotal moment in Indian politics. It reflects the broader struggle between opposition parties and the ruling government, highlighting issues of political integrity and the use of state power. The focus should remain on the implications of such cases for democracy and civil rights in India.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Herald case?
The National Herald case involves allegations against Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders regarding the misuse of funds and ownership of the National Herald newspaper.
Why is Rahul Gandhi being targeted?
Supporters argue that Rahul Gandhi is being targeted due to political vengeance from the ruling BJP government, aimed at diminishing the opposition's influence.
What are the implications of this case?
The implications could affect the political landscape in India, raising concerns about the fairness of using investigative agencies for political gain.
How has the Congress party responded?
The Congress party, through leaders like D.K. Shivakumar, has strongly condemned the government's actions, framing them as political harassment.
What does this mean for Indian democracy?
This situation raises critical questions about the state of democracy in India, particularly regarding political freedom and the role of governmental power in opposition suppression.
