BJP-JD(S) accused of playing politics over Yathindra’s remarks on former royal family

KS Shivaram Photo Credit: File Photo

Backward Classes Forum president KS Shivaram has accused BJP and JD(S) leaders of playing politics over Mysuru district in-charge minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s remarks on former Mysuru royal family’s remarks.

In his statement here on Friday, Mr. Shivaram reiterated Mr. Yathindra’s remarks about the inappropriateness of holding Jamboo Savari on the day of Rathothsava or chariot festival and emphasized that Mysuru Dasara must follow the traditions practiced over the years.

On the Mysuru Palace issue, Mr. Shivaram pointed out that the Minister, as a representative of the Government, only pointed out that the palace, which was acquired under the Mysore Palace (Acquisition and Transfer) Act, 1998, was public property.

Since the former royal family has challenged the law, the court’s verdict, whatever it is, must be respected.

It would have been enough if Pramoda Devi Wadiyar of the former Mysuru royal family had clarified the matter and there was no need for BJP and JD(S) supporters to exaggerate and not admit the matter.

He remarked that no one can ever forget the contributions of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. His administration, commitment to social justice, equality and development initiatives remain memorable to this day, including monumental actions such as allowing Dalits to enter the palace. Therefore, he urged the government to celebrate the next Dasara as “Nalwadi Mysuru Dasara Naadahabba” and incorporate the name of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar in the official name of the festival.

He said that Mr. Yathindra was not speaking against the rule of kings but was only referring to the legal framework of the Mysuru Palace as the representative of the government. “It is unfortunate that BJP and JD(S) supporters are politicizing the issue and resorting to personal attacks against the minister,” he said.

Mr. Shivaram even pointed out that former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah fought for social justice throughout his political career. “While everyone has the right to criticize him, one should maintain decency in their language. Using personally derogatory remarks is unacceptable,” he said.

Published – 30 Oct 2026 20:22 IST