D.K. Shivakumar, the Congress leader from Karnataka, has vehemently denied the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) accusations that he called for constitutional amendments to provide reservations for Muslims. The controversy ignited after BJP leaders accused Shivakumar of suggesting such changes in a speech during a recent public rally.
Shivakumar’s response was swift and firm, as he categorically stated that he never made any such remarks regarding changes to the Constitution. Instead, he said that his speech was focused on advocating for inclusive policies that ensure marginalized communities, including Muslims, are given equal opportunities in education and employment. According to Shivakumar, the BJP’s accusations were part of a larger effort to distort his position and create unnecessary divisions among communities.
The Congress leader took to social media and addressed the allegations head-on, stating that his party has always upheld the values of the Constitution, and any changes to it would require a broad-based consensus. He also criticized the BJP for playing divisive politics, especially in the lead-up to the state elections in Karnataka. Shivakumar’s defense highlights the growing tension between the two major political parties in the state, as both prepare for the upcoming electoral battle.
The controversy over reservations and constitutional amendments has brought to the forefront the differences between the Congress and BJP’s approaches to social justice. While the BJP accuses the Congress of appeasing specific communities, Shivakumar’s clarification suggests that his stance is one of inclusivity rather than religious favoritism.