India, March 2 -- Amid controversy over his visit to the Maha Shivaratri celebrations at Isha Foundation, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar defended his decision, emphasizing that the Congress party stands for inclusivity.

"I believe in all religions and castes. The Congress party's ideology is to take everyone in society together. I don't differentiate-some may like it, some may not," he told ANI.

Justifying his presence at the event, Shivakumar highlighted Sadhguru's Karnataka roots and his involvement in Cauvery water issues. "Sadhguru is from Karnataka and has been fighting for the Cauvery cause. He personally invited me, and he has a massive following. Many MLAs and leaders from different political parties attended. I w...