Bengaluru, 2 Oct

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday criticised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), saying the organisation had “no connection” to India’s freedom struggle.

Asked about the RSS's centenary celebrations, Shivakumar said, "Let them do whatever they want to do. But they are in no way connected to the freedom struggle."

He dismissed the group’s historical relevance and highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings on peace and nonviolence.

“We want to see Gandhi’s philosophy and the direction he gave to the country being implemented. We are followers of Gandhi,” he said.

He added, “Our thoughts are about the nation, freedom, and Gandhiji’s ideology. We remember Ishwar, Allah Tero Naam. Will BJP ever say Allah? Do they follow Gandhiji’s message? Our national song itself mentions Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Parsis, Jains together. It says our land is a garden of peace for all communities.”

“The foundation of this country is built on such inclusive philosophies, and BJP cannot escape from them. They must live within these principles,” he said.