Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], June 29 (ANI): Backing remarks made by senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Dattatreya Hosabale, Karnataka Leader of Opposition R Ashoka on Sunday accused the Congress party of “cunningly” inserting the terms ‘secularism’ and ‘socialism’ into the Preamble of the Constitution, claiming these words were not originally drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Speaking at a press conference, Ashoka questioned the Congress’ commitment to secular values. “Rahul Gandhi demands a caste census on one hand and talks about secularism on the other. I identify myself as a Vokkaliga. Everyone identifies with their caste. If so, the term ‘secular’ has no meaning. Let Congress leaders show where the words ‘secular’ and ‘socialist’ are in the Constitution written by Dr. BR Ambedkar,” he said.
Ashoka further argued that Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi significantly altered the Constitution’s original framework. “Jawaharlal Nehru brought the first amendment and made a total of 17 amendments. Later, Indira Gandhi made 26 amendments. They amended the original intentions of Baba Saheb. Overall, Congress made 68 amendments. Congress cunningly added these two words—secularism and socialism. This needs to be discussed,” he asserted.
The words ‘secular’ and ‘socialist’ were added to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 during the Emergency.
Taking aim at the Congress-led state government, Ashoka alleged that BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) is “financially bankrupt.” “Salaries for clinic staff haven’t been paid, and several development projects have stalled. MLAs like BR Patil have raised concerns. Now, the government will impose more taxes on people,” he said.
Accusing the government of widespread corruption, Ashoka stated, “People wanting to build houses must pay bribes to the government.” He also claimed that a change in the Chief Minister’s post was imminent, suggesting that Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s horoscope is unfavourable. “Shivakumar lacks natural luck and may try to seize power by force,” he alleged.
Ashoka also likened the state government’s proposed social media regulations to press censorship during the Emergency under Indira Gandhi. “Journalists criticising the government may be jailed,” he warned.
He acknowledged his absence from a BJP committee meeting led by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi but insisted that the party is working to resolve internal district-level issues. “BJP has effectively opposed the government, but unity is needed for the party to shine,” Ashoka concluded. (ANI)
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