Congress seeks strict action against deputy commissioner for waving saffron flag at an event

BENGALURU: The act of Udupi Deputy Commissioner T K Swaroopa waving a saffron flag with 'Om' on the centre while flagging off the Paryaya Mahotsav procession, has stoked a controversy. The district Congress unit has written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, claiming that the flag carried by the deputy commissioner was that of the RSS and demanded action.

The deputy commissioner waved the saffron flag while inaugurating the city entry procession of Shiroor Mutt Seer Vedavardhana Tirtha Swamiji on January 18. The Congress has alleged that BJP MLA from Udupi Yashpal Suvarna handed over the RSS flag to the deputy commissioner. However, the deputy commissioner has denied the allegation. The ceremony was organised as part of the handover of the administration of the Udupi Sree Krishna Temple to the Shiroor Mutt till 2026-28. The temple is administered by eight mutts in turn. The function of changing the administration is attended by high-ranking officials. A large crowd also attends the ceremonies.

The deputy commissioner's explanation is that it was not a political event and that she participated as part of her official duties. However, it is not known whether an official explanation was sought from her. Meantime, the BJP has stepped forward against the Congress. ‘This is a traditional Hindu festival. The flag used there is just a flag. It is not the flag of Pakistan. I do not see anything wrong in the deputy commissioner waving such a flag,' said a BJP leader.