Karnataka: Resolution passed against ‘purification’ ritual
The Karnataka Legislative Council passed a resolution condemning the ritualistic 'purification' of a stage used by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge in Uttarakhand. Congress members argued the act was a public display of untouchability and an insult to a Dalit leader.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing political tensions regarding caste-based discrimination and the use of religious rituals in public discourse in India.
The Karnataka Legislative Council on Monday passed a resolution condemning the ritual “purification” of the stage used by Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, M. Mallikarjun Kharge, to address a gathering at Ram Lila Maidan in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, recently.
The resolution was moved by Congress member F.H. Jakkannanavar even as the Opposition vociferously demanded the resignation of Minister B. Nagendra, creating a din in the House. Council Chairman Saleem Ahmed declared the resolution passed on a voice vote.
The Congress member said the BJP and “Manuvadis” had insulted Mr. Kharge, a Dalit, by performing rituals to “cleanse” the stage from which he had addressed the gathering.
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