Section of Congress leaders push for action against DK Shivakumar for singing RSS anthem

BENGALURU: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has already apologised at the press meet on Tuesday for reciting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) anthem in the Assembly recently, but it is unclear if that has soothed ruffled feathers within the Congress.

Shivakumar claimed he sang the anthem to pull the legs of BJP leaders during a heated debate and did not want to hurt the feelings of anyone across party lines. Despite his apology, some Congress leaders like B K Hariprasad have demanded further explanation, questioning Shivakumar’s actions as Karnataka Congress president.

It is being speculated that there may be pressure building up behind the scenes within the party to take action against the Congress troubleshooter.

Former minister K N Rajanna and Hariprasad have come out against Shivakumar’s recent comments, with Hariprasad directly demanding that Shivakumar apologise for his remarks. Hariprasad stated that it’s not right for Shivakumar to speak in such a manner with him being the KPCC president too.

Meanwhile, Rajanna mocked Shivakumar saying that the latter can say whatever he wants and will still get support from the high command. The opposition within the party seems to be gaining momentum.

Amid speculations of him joining hands with the BJP and RSS, Shivakumar has already reiterated that he will stay with the Congress party. However, questions linger on the high command’s reaction despite Shivakumar’s apology.

Considering Rahul Gandhi’s past opposition to the RSS and his criticism of Shivakumar’s actions, some are drawing parallels between Shivakumar’s actions and the time when Rahul Gandhi punished Rajanna for speaking out against him on the issue of vote theft.

On the other hand, Deputy CM Shivakumar said that he apologised to party leaders, but was under no pressure and also clarified that he did not receive any call from the high command.