DK Shivakumar Sings RSS Anthem in Karnataka Assembly, Issues Clarification Afterwards

DK Shivakumar Sings RSS Anthem in Karnataka Assembly, Insists He Remains a Congress Leader.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar sparked controversy on Thursday after singing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) anthem Namaste Sada Vatsale Matrubhume in the state assembly. The BJP quickly criticised the act, accusing Congress leaders of praising the RSS despite previously condemning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to the organisation in his Independence Day speech.

A 73-second video clip showed Shivakumar singing during a debate on the June 4 stampede outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari claimed it reflected internal contradictions within Congress and mocked Rahul Gandhi’s leadership.

Shivakumar clarified his position, saying, “I am a born Congressman. I have been with the Congress since birth and will remain so. There is no question of joining hands with the BJP.”

He also addressed the opposition’s criticism regarding IPL celebrations, calling the stadium stampede “an unfortunate accident” and defending his actions as Bengaluru’s in-charge minister. The Deputy Chief Minister sang the anthem in a jovial manner, referencing his past playful association with RSS attire.