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

K.S. Shivaram | Photo Credit: File Photo

Backward Classes Forum president K.S. Shivaram has accused the BJP and JD(S) leader of playing politics over the remarks of Minister in-charge of Mysuru district Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s remarks regarding the erstwhile royal family of Mysuru.

In a statement here on Friday, Mr. Shivaram echoed Mr. Yathindra’s remarks about the inappropriateness of holding Jamboo Savari on the day of Rathothsava or chariot festival and emphasised that Mysuru Dasara must proceed according to the traditions practiced over the years.

With regard to the Mysuru Palace issue, Mr. Shivaram pointed out that the Minister, as a government representative, was only pointing out that the palace, which had been acquired under the Mysore Palace (Acquisition and Transfer) Act of 1998, was a public property.

As the erstwhile royal family had challenged the Act, the court’s verdict, whatever it may be, must be respected.

It would have been enough had Pramoda Devi Wadiyar of the erstwhile royal family of Mysuru clarified the matter and there was no need for BJP and JD(S) supporters to exaggerate the matter and blow it out of proportion.

He noted 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 granting entry to Dalits into the palace. Therefore, he urged the government to celebrate the next Dasara as the “Nalwadi Mysuru Dasara Naadahabba” and incorporate Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s name into the festival’s official title.

He said Mr. Yathindra had not spoken against the reign of the kings, but had merely referred to the legal framework of Mysuru palace as a government representative. “It is unfortunate that the BJP and JD(S) supporters are politicising the matter and resorting to personal attacks against the Minister,” he said.

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

Published - October 30, 2026 08:22 pm IST