D.K. Shivakumar, Karnataka’s Congress leader, has condemned the BJP’s claims that he called for changes to the Indian Constitution to offer reservations to Muslims. The controversy erupted when BJP leaders misrepresented his remarks from a recent speech, which focused on social justice issues.
Shivakumar’s defense against these allegations was clear: he stated that he had not suggested any constitutional amendments, nor had he ever expressed any intention to alter the reservation system for any particular religious group. His remarks, he said, were aimed at ensuring that marginalized communities, including Muslims, continue to receive fair treatment through affirmative action programs.
He accused the BJP of deliberately distorting his words to create confusion and sow division among communities. Shivakumar emphasized that his commitment to social justice was rooted in the principles of the Constitution, which guarantees equal rights to all citizens. His clarification comes as a response to the BJP’s attempt to frame him as a proponent of divisive policies ahead of the upcoming elections.
The controversy underscores the deep political tensions in Karnataka, as the Congress and BJP continue to engage in a battle of narratives, with each side accusing the other of engaging in polarizing politics to secure electoral advantage.