New Delhi (Agency): D.K. Shivakumar, the Karnataka Congress President and Deputy Chief Minister, voiced concerns over rising communal tensions in India. He emphasized that it’s essential to actively resist these forces for the unity and harmony of the nation.
Addressing an audience in Bengaluru after the flag hoisting ceremony at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office, Shivakumar stated: “The seeds of poison are being sowed in terms of religion, caste, and creed in a country which stands on values of non-violence, peace, tolerance, and fraternity.”
Drawing parallels with the past, he declared: “There is a need for waging another war of independence. The contemporary struggle is to fight against communal forces.”
Highlighting the Congress party’s significant role in uniting the country in earlier times, Shivakumar discussed the emerging unity under the INDIA opposition alliance. He elaborated, “Karnataka took a lead role against the British and played a pivotal role in the freedom movement. Today, in the same Karnataka, the INDIA alliance is taking shape.”
He expressed that it’s a collective responsibility to “empower INDIA and protect the country.” Reaffirming the Congress party’s contributions, he emphasized, “The party that earned freedom for India, built it and directed it towards progress is the Congress party.”
Reflecting on recent events, Shivakumar expressed his concerns, “We can’t sit idly after merely hoisting a flag and singing the national anthem. Disturbing incidents, like the massacre in Manipur, communal tensions in Haryana, and lynchings in Uttar Pradesh, showcase threats to our freedom.”
Addressing the current political atmosphere, Shivakumar mentioned that the goals of freedom such as “integrity, co-existence, communal harmony, and inclusiveness” seem to be at risk. Criticizing the BJP, he said, “The BJP does not understand the importance of freedom. The saffron party lacks a history in the freedom struggle.”
Shivakumar also shared significant historical events, reminding everyone of Karnataka’s contribution to India’s independence. “Esuru village in Shivamogga district of Karnataka declared independence against the British for the first time in the country. The Amara Sullia struggle, initiated in 1837, marks India’s first freedom fight. Freedom fighters managed to raise Indian flags in Mangaluru and nearby villages for 13 days,” he informed.
However, he also highlighted the tragic ends some of these freedom fighters met. “On October 21, 1837, the movement’s main leaders were executed. The massacre of freedom fighters in Vidurashwatha on April 25, 1938, can be compared to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy of South India,” he concluded.
Shivakumar’s address brings forth the importance of unity and understanding in contemporary India, urging citizens to remember the sacrifices made for freedom and strive for a harmonious nation.
