Eshwarappa praises DK Shivakumar for his stand on Hinduism

Shivamogga: Former Deputy Chief Minister KS Eshwarappa expressed his happiness over Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s “I was born a Hindu, and I will die a Hindu,” statement.

Speaking at a press conference, Eshwarappa said that this statement was inspiring.

He drew a parallel to Mahatma Gandhi’s last words, “Hey Ram,” suggesting that a similar inspiration might have influenced Shivakumar. “This statement has motivated many young people across the country,” he remarked.

Eshwarappa defended Shivakumar’s participation in the Shivaratri event, stating that there was nothing wrong with it. “Sadguru invited him to the event, and he attended. Even Pranab Mukherjee had once attended the RSS Vijayadashami celebration. What is wrong with that?” he asked.

He further claimed that many Congress leaders have respect for Hinduism but lack the courage to openly express it. “For the first time in my life, I am praising DK Shivakumar because he spoke in alignment with the principles followed even before independence,” he said.

Eshwarappa acknowledged the role of BS Yediyurappa and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in shaping his political career. “I would not be where I am today without BS Yediyurappa and the RSS. This is something I can never forget,” he said.

When asked if he had wished Yediyurappa on his birthday, he responded, “He is my mentor. Do you need to announce it publicly when you seek your father’s blessings? Not everything should be viewed through a political lens.”

Eshwarappa’s remarks have stirred discussions within the political circles of Karnataka, especially in the context of the ongoing debate on religious identity in Indian politics.