'Namaste Sada Vatsale': Controversy after RSS anthem in assembly; DK Shivakumar clarifies political stand

BENGALURU: Controversy over Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar singing the RSS Anthem in the assembly. Shivakumar sang the song 'Namaste Sada Vatsale' in the assembly. However, today Shivakumar rejected the BJP's claim that this was due to his old RSS connections. He clarified that he is a firm Congress supporter.

'I am a staunch Congressman. A Congressman by birth. As long as I live, I will remain a Congressman. My life, my blood – everything belongs to the Congress. I am now leading the party, and I will stand as its pillar of support.' DK Shivakumar said. He made this clear to the media at the Vidhana Soudha, the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

He said that he has studied and researched about Janata Dal, the BJP, and likewise, has also understood the RSS. He also spoke about the growth of RSS in the state. He also commented that RSS has created a big base in the state by bringing educational institutions under its fold at every taluk and district level.

Shivakumar sang the RSS hymn while engaging in a verbal spat with BJP MLA R Ashoka in the assembly the other day. Shivakumar had also said in the House that he accepts the good qualities of those in the opposition party.