'Ultimately, We All Are Hindus': D K Shivakumar Defends Karnataka Government's Decision To Celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony

In a bid to showcase unity and religious inclusivity, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has defended the Congress-ruled state's decision to celebrate the upcoming consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Speaking to reporters during his visit to Kerala for the Ramachandran Foundation award ceremony, Shivakumar asserted, "ultimately, we all are Hindus".

On being asked why the Congress high command had not decided to take part in the ceremony at Ayodhya, he said the BJP-ruled Centre was adopting a pick-and-choose method in deciding who should be at the event.

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Shivakumar emphasised that religious symbols and places are not private property but belong to the public.

As reported by The Hindu, he expressed respect for the sentiments of all citizens and underlined the state government's commitment to diverse sections, including minorities, SC/STs, OBCs, and the Hindu community.

His statements come amid the controversy surrounding the participation of Congress leaders in the Ayodhya ceremony.

The Supreme Court's historic 2019 verdict supported the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, leading to the scheduled consecration ceremony on 22 January.

As the Ram temple in Ayodhya becomes a focal point of national attention, political leaders try to navigate the delicate balance between religious sentiments and political inclusivity.

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