Bengaluru, August 13: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has strongly condemned the alleged ‘purification’ ceremony that took place at the rally site of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. He described the act as shameful and an insult to the Constitution.
In a statement, Shivakumar said that this incident is “not just an insult to one individual, but a direct attack on the values enshrined in our Constitution and a disgusting example of caste prejudice in modern India.”
He referred to Kharge as one of the most respected politicians in the country and a lifelong public servant. The Chief Minister asserted that suggesting a need for ‘purification’ at a public venue due to a Dalit leader’s address is a clear indication of caste discrimination.
“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 stated.
Shivakumar emphasized that untouchability is not a matter of opinion but a constitutional crime and a moral stigma. He further remarked 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.
He 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 on all democratic forces to raise their voices against this incident.
Shivakumar concluded by stating 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 promise of equality, justice, and dignity for all.
Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Udaipur Kiran, specializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.