Congress MP Sunil Bose Faces Controversy Over Kumkum Ritual at Chamundeshwari Temple

Bengaluru, 6th August 2024: Sunil Bose, a newly elected Congress MP from Chamarajanagar and the son of social welfare minister HC Mahadevappa, recently sparked controversy by applying kumkum on the forehead of senior KAS officer MK Savitha at the Chamundeshwari temple on Chamundi Hills. The photos of the incident, which occurred on July 26—an Ashadha Friday—quickly circulated on social media. Bose and Savitha, who is the joint director of tourism, were seen participating in rituals together.

The incident has drawn criticism, particularly because Bose did not list a spouse in his Lok Sabha election affidavit. Despite this, Mahadevappa defended his son’s actions, stating, “Anyone is free to apply kumkum. There is nothing inappropriate about it.” He also mentioned that the BJP had previously lodged a complaint with the Election Commission regarding his son’s nomination, but all necessary information had been provided and accepted.

A legal expert noted that applying kumkum to someone’s forehead is not considered an offence unless it involves partners or the individual being touched objects. The relevant authorities can review the situation within their jurisdiction if necessary.

Bose, who is currently in Delhi for the Parliament’s monsoon session, described the incident as a personal matter. He added, “There are many important issues to address, but critics are making a fuss over nothing. If asked by the appropriate authorities, I will respond accordingly.”