BJP Calls Out Karnataka CM Shivakumar After Half-Eaten Apple Video Goes Viral
A viral video of CM Shivakumar tossing a half-eaten apple triggers a sharp BJP backlash.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has found himself at the center of a political controversy after a video from a public event in his home constituency of Kanakapura surfaced on social media. The footage, recorded during his recent gratitude tour, showed the chief minister taking a bite of an apple before tossing the remaining half-eaten fruit into a crowd gathered to greet him. The incident quickly drew attention online and triggered criticism from opposition leaders.
The event was part of Shivakumar’s outreach program following his recent elevation as Karnataka’s chief minister. Large crowds turned out across Kanakapura to welcome the Congress leader, who has represented the constituency multiple times in the state assembly. During one such interaction with supporters, the video captured the moment that has since become the focus of public and political debate.
Soon after the clip began circulating online, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Chief Minister’s actions. Opposition figures questioned whether the gesture was appropriate for a public representative and argued that citizens attending the event deserved respect and dignity. Some BJP leaders remarked that members of the public were not “beggars” and should not be treated in a manner that could be perceived as disrespectful.
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The video also generated mixed reactions on social media platforms. While several users condemned the act and echoed the opposition’s criticism, others defended Shivakumar, suggesting that the gesture may have been spontaneous and not intended to offend anyone. The differing responses turned the incident into a wider discussion about public conduct and the responsibilities of elected leaders during interactions with supporters.
Following the visit, Shivakumar posted a message on social media expressing gratitude to the people of Kanakapura. Thanking voters for electing him to the Legislative Assembly multiple times, he said their blessings, support, votes, efforts, and prayers had given him the opportunity to serve the people of Karnataka. He described the position not as a personal achievement but as a mandate entrusted to him by the public.
The controversy comes at a time when the new Chief Minister is seeking to strengthen his connection with voters and build momentum for his administration. Although no official response was immediately issued regarding the criticism surrounding the video, the episode has once again highlighted how public actions by political leaders can quickly become subjects of intense scrutiny in the age of social media.
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