'I am a born Congressman': DK Shivakumar clarifies after singing RSS anthem in Karnataka assembly

RSS is the ideological parent of the country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In the video, which went viral on social media, Shivakumar was seen singing 'Namaste Sada Vatsale Matribhume' standing in the state assembly.

Amid political speculations triggered by the singing, Shivakumar, a Congress strongman, clarified saying, "I am a born Congressman... I have done research on all political parties. I know how RSS is building institutions in Karnataka... They are acquiring every school in every district... They are trying to preach to children."

"As a leader, I should know who my opponents are and who are my friends. I just try to learn about the RSS and its history... Politically, we have a lot of differences. But the BJP also should know that I have gone very deep into them," he added. (sic)

Shivakumar sang the song in the assembly after the Leader of Opposition from the BJP, R Ashoka, took a jibe at the Deputy CM reminding him of his claim that he had worn RSS shorts in childhood.

The Deputy CM, who is known as the Congress' crisis-manager, countered him by singing the opening lines of the RSS anthem.