Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar claimed on Thursday that political rivals are engaging in black magic through ‘Aghoris’ and ‘tantriks’ at a temple in Kerala, targeting him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He suggested that this was an attempt to undermine their government.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Shivakumar asserted he had credible information that a yagya (special worship) was being performed by ‘Aghoris’ in a secluded area near the Rajarajeshwari temple in Kerala. “The ritual is underway and is being conducted against me, the CM, and to destabilize the Congress government,” he reiterated.
He explained that the yagya, known as ‘Raja Kantaka’ and ‘Marana Mohana Stambhana’ yagyas, is intended to eliminate enemies. Participants in the ritual had informed him about this, Mr. Shivakumar stated.
According to him, through the Aghoris, 21 red goats, three buffaloes, 21 black sheep, and five pigs are being sacrificed for black magic.
When questioned if BJP or JD-S leaders were behind this ritual, Mr. Shivakumar insisted that politicians from Karnataka were responsible. “I know who is conducting this ritual. Let them continue their efforts; I don’t bother. It is left to their belief system. Despite their attempts and experiments to cause harm, the force which I believe in will protect me,” he said.
When asked if he would perform a counter-ritual, Mr. Shivakumar replied, “I pray to God for a minute every day before going to work.”
Pressed to identify those responsible for the ritual, Mr. Shivakumar suggested the media should investigate rather than asking him to name names.
“Why would I bother about it? It is their attempt. It is their belief. No matter what they attempt, the forces we believe in will protect us,” he added.
Mr. Shivakumar announced a legislators’ meeting in Bengaluru on June 2, inviting all MLCs, MLAs, and MPs. The meeting would address party matters and the MLC election, he said.
Regarding the MLC election, Mr. Shivakumar stated, “Among 300 aspirants, 65 have been shortlisted based on various criteria. The high command sought our opinion, and we have provided it.”
He mentioned a commitment to give Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, Dr. Yathindra, an MLC post, as he vacated his MLA seat for his father. Prominent leaders, including those defeated in the election, have sought tickets. Aspirants who sacrificed their seats will also be considered. Representation will be given to regions like Kalyana Karnataka, Mumbai Karnataka, coastal, and central Karnataka. It is not possible to give priority only to Bengaluru, he added.