Bengaluru: A Congress worker holding the national flag sparked outrage across Karnataka after being filmed bending down to untie Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's shoelaces during the flag hoisting ceremony for Mahatma Gandhi's 155th birth anniversary.
The incident, which occurred as the state commemorated the birth anniversaries of both Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, quickly went viral, igniting a political controversy that overshadowed the day’s solemn celebrations.
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Disrespect to the national flag by Congress worker who is removing CM Siddaramaiah’s shoes.
And they have the nerve to call others ‘Andh- Bhakts’ pic.twitter.com/U9nNwWDg1z
The video of the Congress worker’s actions drew widespread condemnation from netizens and political opponents, particularly the BJP. Critics questioned the disrespect shown to the national flag and labeled the behaviour as submissive.
The BJP seized the opportunity to criticise the Congress party and CM Siddaramaiah's leadership, posting the video on X with a scathing message: "The Congress party has no respect for the country and does not honor the national flag. Siddaramaiah, in the twilight of his political life, is indifferent even while holding the national flag."
Social media users expressed their anger, demanding an apology from CM Siddaramaiah for allowing such an incident to unfold during a day dedicated to honouring national icons.
Public figures, including actors and other prominent personalities, voiced their discontent, arguing that the actions reflected poorly on the Chief Minister’s office and tarnished the dignity associated with the national flag.
One netizen lamented, "This incident is deeply disappointing and reflects poorly on those in power. The national flag should be treated with utmost respect. Allowing someone to untie your shoelace while holding the flag is completely unacceptable."
This incident is not Siddaramaiah's first encounter with unusual scrutiny. He previously generated speculation when a black crow perched on his car during a public event, which many interpreted as an ill omen.
More recently, a spark ignited his clothing while he lit a torch for Kittur Utsav in Bengaluru, further fuelling discussions about the challenges facing his administration. Although security personnel quickly extinguished the fire, the incident gained traction on social media, with some linking it to the ongoing difficulties confronting Siddaramaiah's government.