“On What Basis Was Umar Khalid Called a Nationalist? Students Will Not Remain Silent” – Muliya Sathwik Warns Over Hariprasad’s Statement

Karnataka Congress President B. K. Hariprasad’s statement describing Umar Khalid as a “nationalist” has been strongly condemned by student representative Muliya Sathwik. “On what basis do you call Umar Khalid a nationalist? When there are controversies associated with his name concerning the unity and integrity of the country, what is the reasoning behind describing him as a nationalist?” Sathwik questioned.

Sathwik said that on one hand there is the controversy surrounding the alleged slogan “Bharat Tere Tukde Honge,” while on the other hand the same individual is being described as a nationalist. He questioned how B. K. Hariprasad intends to justify this apparent contradiction before the people of Karnataka. “If a person is associated with controversies surrounding slogans that question the unity and integrity of the nation, on what basis can that person be described as a nationalist?” Sathwik asked.

“Nationalism is not a certificate handed out according to political convenience. It is a commitment to the unity, integrity, Constitution and democratic values of the country,” Muliya Sathwik said. He demanded that Hariprasad publicly clarify the basis, reasoning and context behind his statement before the students and people of Karnataka.

Sathwik further stated that Hariprasad must either publicly substantiate his statement and explain its basis or withdraw it. “The days when students were expected to remain silent spectators are over. The student community will not hesitate to question statements concerning national unity and national interest, irrespective of who makes them. We will seek answers, demand clarity and register our democratic opposition wherever necessary,” said Muliya Sathwik, President of the All College Students’ Union.