Haveri: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar says divisive forces more harmful than climate change

Haveri: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Wednesday cautioned against divisive forces, asserting that such challenges are more severe than even climate change. He also expressed concern over the misuse of financial resources to fuel anti-national sentiments.

Dhankar was speaking at the inauguration of the third edition of the Karnataka Vaibhava Literature and Cultural Festival at Ranebennur on Friday. He inaugurated the event by beating the traditional Dollu drum.

"The challenges we are facing are more serious than even climate change. (Some) people, in the style they are adopting, are creating divisions in a despicable manner. There are many bases for division—caste, regionalism. I don't understand how there can be a debate about regionalism versus nationalism in this country. How absurd and baseless it is, but when you look at its roots, you will find the hand of anti-national forces," he said.

He said that these divisive forces work in different ways.

“They have adopted new paths, and on many issues, you will see they turn to the judiciary. I am concerned because our Constitution has given every individual the right in the judicial system, and what is the right? That they can seek the shelter of the court. But in recent years, money has been used to fuel anti-national sentiments, and access to the judiciary has been weaponized in a way that is not happening in any other country," he said.

He further stated, "The forces challenging the nation, trying to create a clash between nationalism and regionalism, must receive a strong response. They want to shake our cultural heritage."

The Vice President expressed concern over attempts to influence the electoral process within the country.

"There is an attempt to influence our electoral process in a manner it should not be influenced. This attempt is being made by those who should not even be a part of it, but they are involved. We must, collectively, with strong resolve, develop a mindset," he said.

Dhankhar lauded Karnataka’s rich heritage in art, literature, history, and culture, stating that the intricate sculptures of Belur and Halebidu have captured global attention.

He expressed amazement at the grandeur of Bharatanatyam and Yakshagana performances. “A closer look reveals a deep spiritual essence embedded in these art forms,” he said.

The Vice President praised Karnataka’s reformers like Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, and Allama Prabhu for their immense contributions to building an egalitarian society. He also highlighted the glorious rule of the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagara Empire, calling Karnataka’s rich legacy a matter of great pride.

Commending the Karnataka Vaibhava initiative for showcasing the state’s traditions and heritage, the Vice President emphasized the resilience of Indian culture despite historical invasions. “Centuries ago, foreign invaders destroyed our temples and attempted to erase our traditions, but Indian culture endured. Our national unity and patriotism must remain strong, for nothing is greater than the nation’s welfare,” he remarked.

During the event, the Vice President also released the book Varadiya Sharade, highlighting the significance of Haveri.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot and others were present. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Wednesday cautioned against divisive forces, asserting that such challenges are more severe than even climate change. He also expressed concern over the misuse of financial resources to fuel anti-national sentiments.