Bengaluru, Oct 19, 2025: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has refrained from commenting on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent statements targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and what he termed “Sanatanis,” which have stirred a political controversy in the state.
Siddaramaiah’s Remarks
- Venue: Silver Jubilee celebration of Mysore University & inauguration of Knowledge Vision Building.
- Key Points:
- Criticized RSS and Sangh Parivar for historically opposing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution.
- Urged people to avoid associating with “Sanatanis” and to stay vigilant against ideologies resisting societal change.
- Claimed misinformation is being spread by BJP and Sangh members about Ambedkar’s electoral defeat, emphasizing that Ambedkar himself noted Savarkar and Dange as responsible.
- Condemned an incident where a shoe was allegedly thrown at the Chief Justice of India (BR Gavai), citing it as an example of lingering “Sanatani” elitism.
- Expressed faith in the ideas of Buddha, Basava, and Ambedkar as guiding principles for social change.
Political Fallout
- Siddaramaiah’s remarks come after Priyank Kharge demanded a ban on RSS activities in government schools, colleges, and state-owned temples.
- Kharge wrote to Siddaramaiah requesting action against government officials participating in RSS programs, citing Rule 5(1) of Karnataka State Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021.
- DK Shivakumar, when approached by reporters about Siddaramaiah’s statements, said:“I do not want to comment on that. You can ask me whatever you want on my side. I will explain to you.”
- His distancing signals a careful approach within the ruling Congress party as the comments threaten to escalate into a larger political slugfest with the BJP.
Context
The remarks mark an intensifying ideological confrontation in Karnataka politics, with Siddaramaiah focusing on Dalit and social reform narratives, while the BJP and RSS remain politically sensitive to criticisms involving Ambedkar and Hindu traditionalist groups.
Leave a Reply