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The Karnataka Assembly witnessed a significant political showdown following an incident involving Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. A 73-second video went viral, depicting Shivakumar singing the RSS anthem, “Namaste Sada Vatsale Matrubhume,” within the assembly. This action triggered a strong reaction from BJP MLAs, who enthusiastically applauded the performance. The BJP seized the opportunity to criticise the Congress party, accusing them of double standards following their earlier condemnation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to the RSS during his Independence Day address.

The ensuing political debate intensified when Shivakumar addressed the controversy. He asserted his unwavering loyalty to the Congress party, declaring himself a “born Congressman.” However, he explained his decision to sing the RSS anthem as a strategic move informed by extensive research into various political organisations within Karnataka. He specifically highlighted the RSS’s growing influence, pointing to substantial investments in educational institutions across districts and taluks.

Shivakumar stated that understanding the RSS’s activities was crucial for a leader to effectively engage with the political landscape and identify both friends and opponents. He emphasised that while his political affiliations firmly remain with the Congress, his research provided invaluable insights into the operations of a significant political player in Karnataka.

The incident has significantly escalated the already tense political climate in Karnataka’s Assembly. It underscores the complex dynamics between the ruling Congress party and the opposition BJP, highlighting differing strategies and approaches to engaging with influential organisations within the state. The event continues to fuel ongoing discussions about political strategy, ideological positions, and the role of influential non-governmental organisations in the political landscape. The videos’ widespread circulation and the subsequent political backlash highlight the sensitive nature of the issue and its potential to further polarise the political discourse in Karnataka.