Synopsis
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar responds to BJP's criticism regarding his Maha Kumbh visit, asserting that faith and rituals are deeply personal. He accuses the BJP of politicizing religion for their agenda, insisting that participation in religious events is an individual's choice.Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar defends personal beliefs
- BJP accused of politicizing faith
- Religious practices are personal matters
- Shivakumar to attend Maha Kumbh with family
- Political implications of his visit
Bengaluru, Feb 5 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday responded to the BJP's criticism regarding his intended visit to the Maha Kumbh, alleging that they are exploiting religion, rituals, and faith for political gain. He emphasized that faith, rituals, and beliefs in any religion are deeply personal matters.
While addressing media inquiries, Shivakumar remarked: "I have no intention of engaging with the comments made by the Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka. I won’t partake in unnecessary arguments on this topic. Our party officials have already issued a comprehensive statement on the subject. The BJP, however, is politicizing it. Religion, rituals, and beliefs must not be manipulated for political ends."
"There are numerous religious customs and beliefs worldwide. I have faith in my God. Some individuals believe in palmistry, while others trust in water, the sky, or the sun. There is no definitive right or wrong here; it is merely a question of personal belief," he continued.
"Let R. Ashoka criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi for attending the Maha Kumbh, not me. Whether I participate in the Maha Kumbh or not is my own decision. Let him first clarify if the Prime Minister or any party leaders, as well as people globally attending the Maha Kumbh, is correct or incorrect. He should comment first, and then we will respond," added Shivakumar.
As the state Congress chief, Shivakumar is expected to take a sacred dip in the Maha Kumbh in UP's Prayagraj on February 9 and return the following day. He mentioned that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has a close relationship with him, invited him to the Maha Kumbh Mela, and he is visiting with his family.
The Karnataka BJP has ridiculed Shivakumar's planned visit to the Maha Kumbh, questioning whether Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who had doubted the importance of a holy dip in the Ganga for poverty alleviation, would challenge the Deputy Chief Minister over his attendance.
On Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition Ashoka sarcastically asked, "Will all his sins be washed away?" following his dip in the Ganga.
"Once KPCC President D.K. Shivakumar takes a holy dip at the Kumbh Mela, will poverty be eliminated in Karnataka? Will Kharge Saheb not question this now?"
Shivakumar is recognized for his deep religious convictions and frequent visits to temples. He has traveled to 'Shakti Peeths' in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh, as well as historic temples in North India.
His involvement in the Maha Kumbh holds political relevance, as sources close to him indicate that he is seeking divine blessings to become the next Chief Minister of Karnataka.
