Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a sharp critique against Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy, labelling him a ‘Manuvadi’ for recommending that the Union government introduce the Bhagavad Gita into school curricula.
Speaking to reporters at the Vidhan Soudha after offering floral tributes to the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar on the 69th Mahaparinirvana Day on Saturday, Siddaramaiah asserted that Kumaraswamy’s stance revealed a significant ideological shift.
Answering questions on the subject, the Chief Minister confirmed that the former Karnataka Chief Minister had written to the Union Education Minister seeking the inclusion of the Gita in the curriculum.
“Kumaraswamy has become a Manuvadi after joining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party,” Siddaramaiah declared.
The term Manuvadi is commonly used in political debates to refer to those perceived to support ideas associated with the Manusmriti, an ancient text that has drawn sustained criticism for views seen as unequal, discriminatory towards lower castes, and restrictive towards women.
In his letter to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday, Kumaraswamy urged that the Bhagavad Gita be integrated into school education. He described the scripture as carrying "timeless, value-based ideals". He also argued that its introduction would help reinforce the focus on moral instruction in classrooms.
Kumaraswamy wrote that value-based education was the highlight of the National Education Policy, and that students would benefit from exposure to selected teachings that promote clarity of thought, moral courage and strong character. He cited the Prime Minister’s recent visit to the Udupi Sri Krishna Math, where the event included a Gita recitation programme, noting that the Prime Minister had underscored core principles like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
Siddaramaiah, however, used the occasion to reiterate his own government’s focus on constitutional values. Paying homage to Ambedkar, he described him as a rare national leader who fought for the rights of all oppressed communities.
“Ambedkar was the architect of the country’s constitution. He studied the constitutions of other countries and gave us a constitution that our country needed. He wanted a change in our social system, equal opportunities for all, and social justice to be established,” he said.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the state had emphasised teaching the preamble of the Constitution in schools and colleges so that students understand both their rights and duties.
He also referenced Ambedkar's final decision, noting, “He said he was born a Hindu but would not die one. He tried to reform Hinduism but failed and hence adopted Buddhism,” as a reflection of his struggle against entrenched social barriers.
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