Tipu Jayanti: Karnataka CM H D Kumaraswamy To Skip Celebrations ‘On Doctor’s Advice’

Karnataka Chief Minister (CM) H D Kumaraswamy has decided to skip the Tipu Jayanti celebrations that will be held today (10 November). Citing medical reasons, his office issued a statement that read, “On the advice of doctors, the CM will take three 3 days rest till 11 November. He will spend time with family on these days and there will be no official engagements.”

The celebrations were initiated under the leadership of the then chief minister Siddaramaiah in 2014. Despite staunch opposition, Congress announced earlier this year that there shall be no changes in the way Tipu Jayanti is celebrated.

Security has been tightened in the state, including the state capital Bengaluru. Prohibitory orders have been issued in sensitive regions like Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hubballi-Dharwad.

The current CM has been critical of Tipu Jayanti in the past and has opposed the culture of commemorating anniversaries. He is reportedly of the opinion that celebration of birthdays does not benefit the society in any way. Karnataka observes 27 jayantis.

Deccan Herald quoted Karnataka Congress president Dinesh Gundu Rao as saying, “Once his name is printed and he doesn’t show up, there will be speculation. There are no differences. The JD(S) and Congress are on the same page.”