Bengaluru, August 13: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar strongly condemned the alleged ‘purification’ ceremony that took place at the rally of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. He described the act as shameful and a direct affront to the Constitution.
In a statement, Shivakumar remarked that this incident is “not just an insult to one individual, but a direct attack on the values enshrined in our Constitution and a disgraceful example of caste prejudice in modern India.”
He praised Kharge as one of the country’s most respected politicians and a lifelong public servant. The Chief Minister stated that suggesting a need for ‘purification’ at a public venue due to a Dalit leader’s address is a clear indication of caste discrimination.
Shivakumar emphasized that this is not only an insult to Mallikarjun Kharge but also an affront to every Indian who believes in equality, brotherhood, and human dignity.
He asserted that untouchability is not a matter of opinion but a constitutional crime and a moral stain. He further stated that those attempting to legitimize such practices are attacking the foundation of the republic envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution’s framers.
Shivakumar declared that India cannot and should not tolerate the resurgence of such medieval prejudices in public life. Every citizen, regardless of caste, deserves equal dignity and respect. Any attempts to normalize or justify such acts must be unequivocally rejected.
Expressing solidarity with Kharge, the Chief Minister stated that he stands firmly with the Congress President and called upon all democratic forces to raise their voices against this incident.
He concluded by saying that silence in the face of such discrimination only empowers those who wish to divide our society. We must reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a India based on the constitutional promises of equality, justice, and dignity for all.
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