Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, also the state Congress president, has offered to apologize for reciting lines from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) prayer song “Namaste Sada Vatsale” in the state assembly, following sharp criticism from within his party. The incident, which occurred on August 21 during a debate on the Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede, sparked a political storm, with some Congress leaders questioning his motives.

Addressing reporters, Shivakumar clarified that his recitation was a “passing reference” meant to counter opposition remarks, not an endorsement of RSS ideology. “I’m a loyal Congressman; my life is dedicated to the party and the Gandhi family,” he asserted, emphasizing that he would “die a Congressman.” He added, “If my words hurt Congressmen or our INDIA bloc allies, I’m ready to apologize, though I believe I made no mistake.”

The controversy erupted when senior Congress leader B.K. Hariprasad suggested Shivakumar might be trying to “impress someone” by singing the RSS anthem, which he deemed inappropriate for a Congress state president. “As Deputy CM, he represents all, including RSS, but as party chief, he must apologize,” Hariprasad stated. The remarks fueled speculation about internal rifts, with some on X suggesting Shivakumar’s actions signal ambitions for the Chief Minister’s post or even a shift toward “soft Hindutva.”

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Shivakumar defended his secular credentials, noting his intent was to highlight RSS’s organizational tactics, not its ideology. “I was pulling the BJP’s leg,” he said, dismissing claims of disloyalty. The incident has reignited debates over Congress’s stance on RSS, especially after the party’s criticism of Prime Minister Modi’s recent praise for the organization. As tensions simmer, Shivakumar’s apology aims to quell dissent within the party.

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