Bengaluru, October 13 (Daily Kiran) : Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar made a significant statement on the right to peaceful protest during a recent address. He asserted that this right is a fundamental aspect of democracy and should not be subject to double standards.
In a post on the social media platform X, Shivakumar stated, “The right to peaceful protest is an essential part of our democracy. We cannot demand this right for ourselves in Delhi while preventing others from exercising it in Bengaluru.” His remarks follow an incident involving demonstrators and journalists, which prompted police action. He has requested a comprehensive report on the circumstances that led to the police intervention, emphasizing that accountability will be enforced if there was unnecessary use of force.
The Chief Minister further clarified, “Disagreement with the Election Commission, my government, or even me personally does not diminish the right to express oneself peacefully. Karnataka must adhere to the democratic standards we expect from the rest of the country. There will be no double standards.”
This statement comes in the wake of clashes during a protest in Bengaluru, where accusations surfaced regarding police brutality against demonstrators. The Congress party has been actively protesting against the Election Commission at the national level, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi filing a petition in the Supreme Court alleging vote theft. This has led to questions about the Karnataka government’s stance on the right to protest, especially when similar demands are made in Delhi.
Shivakumar reiterated his commitment to democratic values, assuring that if any excesses occurred on the part of the police, those responsible would be held accountable.
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