CM Siddaramaiah highlights Gandhi’s legacy, Congress ideals at statue unveiling

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday underscored Mahatma Gandhi’s profound connection to Hinduism and the Congress party’s commitment to "Gandhi's Hindutva" during the unveiling of a Gandhi statue in front of Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi.

Accompanied by Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyanka Gandhi, and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah commemorated the centenary of Gandhi’s 1924 presidency at the Congress session.

“Mahatma Gandhi was a devout Hindu who invoked Lord Rama throughout his life. Even in his final moments, he said ‘Hey Ram.’ Gandhi sought reform within Hinduism and envisioned Hindus and Muslims living as brothers,” Siddaramaiah said.

Congress Ideals vs. BJP Ideology

Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of portraying Gandhi as anti-Hindu, calling it “100 per cent false.” He said Gandhi's Hindutva was inclusive and reformative, contrasting it with the BJP’s “divisive Manuvad” ideology.

“We believe in the Indian Constitution, while the BJP’s actions oppose it. Protecting the Constitution is key to safeguarding democracy and ensuring equality,” he added, alleging BJP’s attempts to undermine constitutional principles over the years.

Mallikarjun Kharge on Gandhi’s Enduring Legacy

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted Gandhi’s contributions to governance and democracy, asserting that the Constitution remains vital to India’s stability. “Without the Constitution, the country would face anarchy. Gandhiji’s sacrifices and vision continue to inspire us,” Kharge said.

The event reinforced the Congress’s commitment to upholding Gandhi’s vision of unity, democracy, and social harmony, while criticizing the BJP’s alleged efforts to weaken these ideals.