Karnataka MLC Ravi Kumar accuses Rahul Gandhi of ‘insulting’ Kannadigas by ‘pushing out’ Chief Minister
A Karnataka politician has accused Rahul Gandhi of insulting the state's citizens by allegedly pushing Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during a protest. Shivakumar has denied the claim, stating that Gandhi was merely showing concern for his safety in a crowded area.
Why it matters
Political optics and allegations of disrespect between leaders can significantly impact public perception and regional political discourse.
Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has “insulted” 7.4 crore Kannadigas by “pushing out” Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during a protest rally in Delhi, Chief Whip of the Opposition in Legislative Council N. Ravi Kumar alleged on Tuesday. However, Mr. Shivakumar has said that he was never “pushed” as claimed.
“I am making this statement notwithstanding the political and ideological differences we have with the Chief Minister because Mr. Shivakumar represents the collective honour, dignity and self-respect of 7.4 crore Kannadigas,” Mr. Ravi Kumar said in a statement issued in Bengaluru.
He accused Mr. Rahul Gandhi of showing “crudity and brazenness” by rudely pushing Mr. Shivakumar during the protest march. This is a proof of Mr. Rahul Gandhi’s utter disrespect for his own party Chief Minister, he maintained.
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