Siddaramaiah's Retort: 'Manuvadi' Politics and the Gita in Curriculum Debate

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah criticized Union Minister Kumaraswamy, calling him 'Manuvadi' for advocating the inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita in the student curriculum. This comment followed Kumaraswamy's letter to the Union Education Minister. Siddaramaiah emphasized Ambedkar's impact on social justice and criticized Kumaraswamy's alliance with the BJP.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, on Saturday, criticized Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy by calling him a 'Manuvadi' following his alliance with the BJP and his request for the Bhagavad Gita's inclusion in the student curriculum. Siddaramaiah argued that this reflects a regressive ideology.

This remark was in response to Kumaraswamy's recent appeal to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasizing that the Gita would inspire youth to become responsible global citizens. Siddaramaiah, while paying tribute to B R Ambedkar on his death anniversary, highlighted Ambedkar's contributions to the Constitution and his quest for social justice.

Responding to allegations of divisive intentions, Kumaraswamy accused Siddaramaiah of attempting to create communal fissures. Siddaramaiah, however, defended his policies aimed at minorities and questioned Kumaraswamy's contributions as a union minister, emphasizing his commitment to social justice through initiatives for underrepresented communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)