Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar issued a strong statement on Wednesday, asserting that the Congress party is the true architect of India’s national identity. Speaking at Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi, he reminded critics that it was the Congress that gave the country its National Flag, National Anthem, the Constitution, and Independence. He remarked that the party’s historical service to the nation laid the groundwork for symbols like ‘Vande Mataram’, and expressed a sense of pride that the BJP and other parties are now following the path long established by the Congress.
Addressing the ongoing debate regarding the mandatory status of ‘Vande Mataram’, Shivakumar clarified that the Congress has always held the song in the highest regard. He noted that the party traditionally begins its programs with the song and respects it deeply. He also drew a parallel with Karnataka’s state anthem, ‘Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate’, made compulsory during S.M. Krishna’s tenure. He emphasized that the state anthem embodies the spirit of a “garden of peace for all communities,” specifically mentioning Hindus, Christians, and Muslims, reflecting the inclusive soil the party has grown from.
Key Highlights and Political Remarks:
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Leadership Transition: When questioned about his brother D.K. Suresh’s comments regarding CM Siddaramaiah “keeping his word” (hinting at a leadership shift), Shivakumar remained cryptic, stating that “only we know what we have spoken about” and that time would provide the answer.
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Assam Elections: Shivakumar confirmed his current focus is on Assam election work and dismissed further queries about meetings with Priyanka Gandhi, urging the media not to over-analyze different issues.
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Inclusivity vs. Mandates: He reaffirmed that while the party follows and respects national symbols, their priority remains maintaining communal harmony and the constitutional framework they helped build.
