Bangalore, 26 August (H.S.): Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has apologised after criticism was levelled against him for singing the RSS anthem in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, he clarified that if anyone is hurt by my actions or words, I am ready to apologise. My desire is not to hurt anyone's feelings. I will apologise to everyone.

However, he also vented his anger on those from his own party who raised their voices against him. He said that those who questioned his words were fools. Former minister K.N. Rajanna retorted by saying that he should advise whomever he wants, but he need not tell me.

Shivakumar dismissed the allegation of singing the RSS song and said, I have not sung any RSS song. When BJP members were speaking in the assembly, I had sung the song from the movie 'RRR' as a joke. It was just an attempt to provoke the opposition. He explained that sarcasm and humour are normal in a parliamentary democracy.

Recalling his political journey, he said, I have been in public life since 1979 through a student organisation. I don't need to learn lessons from anyone. The relationship between me and the Gandhi family is like that of a devotee and God. I have grown in politics only because of their sacrifice, devotion and blessings, D.K. Shivakumar claimed.

Hindusthan Samachar / Rakesh Mahadevappa