'I am a Congressman by birth': Shivakumar refutes BJP ties
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Synopsis
Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar dismissed rumors of his closeness to the BJP, asserting that he remains a committed Congressman. He praised the BJP's management of the Maha Kumbh Mela, while affirming his respect for all religions and the Congress party's unity and history.
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar denies BJP connection rumors
- Commends BJP for Maha Kumbh Mela management
- Affirms Congress party's unity and history
- Respects all religions, holds Hindu beliefs
- Admires Sadhguru and his wisdom
Bengaluru, Feb 26 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday labeled the reports indicating that he is growing closer to the BJP as mere speculation, insisting that no such occurrences have taken place.
When questioned about the Maha Kumbh Mela, Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress president, diverged from his party's official stance to commend the BJP government on its management of such a grand event.
During a press conference held at his residence, Shivakumar remarked: "I want to clarify. I have noticed in the media and on social media that some of my acquaintances are reaching out after seeing reports claiming that Shivakumar is aligning with the BJP. By birth, I am a Congressman; my position is that I am a Hindu, and I honor every societal culture. Beyond my personal beliefs, the Congress ideology is about uniting everyone together."
“Stories are being fabricated. Sadhguru from the Isha Foundation visited my home and invited me to Shivratri. He hails from Mysuru, and I hold deep admiration for his wisdom. Social media is speculating that I am getting closer to the BJP. I have yet to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah,” he added.
Shivakumar and Amit Shah are scheduled to participate in the Mahashivratri festival at the Isha Foundation in Coimbatore, alongside numerous national and state ministers.
“This is reminiscent of what Mahatma Gandhi, (Pandit Jawaharlal) Nehru, and Indira Gandhi accomplished. I have witnessed Sonia Gandhi presiding over the Ugadi festival. I once visited her 25 years ago. In Kashmir and Karnataka, the Ugadi festival is celebrated on the same day. She (Sonia Gandhi) embodies a greater Hindu spirit and has embraced Indian culture more than any of us. We are guided by such a lineage,” Shivakumar stated.
When asked about Congress President Mallikarjuna Kharge’s comments regarding the Maha Kumbh Mela, Shivakumar noted that Mallikarjuna, the party chief's first name, signifies Lord Shiva.
"I am a Hindu. I was born a Hindu, and I will pass away a Hindu. However, I cherish and respect all faiths. During my time in jail, I explored Sikhism. I received education about Sikhism while incarcerated,” he shared.
Reflecting on his visit to the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Shivakumar expressed: "My experience was exceptional. I commend the organization for executing such a monumental task. Managing such a vast crowd is no small feat. There may have been some hiccups, and issues with train services, but overall, it was satisfactory."
Shivakumar also asserted that the Congress is a remarkable party with a rich history. "The philosophy and culture of Congress differ. Individuals may have divergent views, and some may rush, but ultimately, nothing will change. The party stands united, and while many may come and go, the core remains intact," he emphasized.
In response to a query about Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, Shivakumar expressed that "he is an admirable figure and a valuable asset to Congress. He seeks to have his talents utilized more effectively, and nothing beyond that," he concluded.
