Shivakumar claims Kumaraswamy tapped community seer’s phone in battle for Vokkaliga votes

Bengaluru, April 12 (IANS) As the Lok Sabha polls draw near, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and JD-S state chief H.D. Kumaraswamy are engaged in a fierce battle to win the support of the influential Vokkaliga community. The recent controversy surrounding the phone-tapping of seer Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt has added fuel to the ongoing political feud.

Shivakumar revealed that there is concrete evidence to prove the phone-tapping incident of the revered Vokkaliga seer. He stated, “We know this. It hurts to talk about it. All documents are available… discussing the issue is not appropriate now. I will talk about it in the future.” This revelation came in response to Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy’s statement regarding the matter during Kumaraswamy’s tenure as Chief Minister.

The NDA candidates’ visit to Adichunchanagiri Mutt and seeking the blessings of the seer has further intensified the political scenario. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka claimed that the seer had blessed all candidates, while Shivakumar emphasized that the Congress garners support from all communities, not just one.

Shivakumar dismissed concerns about JD-S-Congress government topple and Vokkaliga support, emphasizing that people support a party based on its contribution to their livelihood and the welfare of the state. He also stressed the importance of respecting the seer, stating, “Caste will not leave you even if you leave caste.” The allegations of phone-tapping during Kumaraswamy’s tenure have sparked controversy, with the approaching elections expected to bring strong reactions from the Vokkaliga community.