DK Shivakumar faces backlash over meeting with Israeli diplomat amid Gaza conflict
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar has come under sharp criticism on social media after he shared details of his meeting with Inbal Stone, Deputy Consul General at the Consulate General of Israel, at Vidhana Soudha. In his post, Shivakumar stated that he had received an invitation to attend Israel’s Independence Day celebrations scheduled for June 5 and expressed a desire to strengthen ties between Karnataka and Israel, especially in innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
However, the timing and tone of the statement have triggered a wave of disapproval from citizens and activists who feel it is inappropriate to express such sentiments when Israel is facing global criticism over its ongoing military operations in Gaza. Many commenters questioned the moral position of the Congress leader for engaging diplomatically with Israel amid what several international observers have called a humanitarian crisis.
Critics pointed out that the meeting comes at a time when Israel has been accused by global human rights organisations and international observers of committing large-scale violence against Palestinians in Gaza.
According to recent reports from international media, including Al Jazeera, violence in Gaza has intensified in recent days. As of May 27, Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that more than 54,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 123,000 injured since Israel began its military operations in October 2023. In just the past few days, renewed airstrikes and ground offensives in Rafah and northern Gaza have caused dozens of civilian deaths, with aid agencies warning of worsening humanitarian conditions. The UN and several rights groups have called for an immediate ceasefire, raising serious concerns about the scale of destruction and suffering.
One social media user commented, "If you do attend, I sincerely hope you will use the opportunity to speak up for an independent Palestine and condemn the ongoing genocide and human rights violations being committed in Gaza. It’s deeply disappointing to see a Congress leader meet with an Israeli official at this moment."
Another added, "At a time when Israel’s actions in Gaza are being called genocidal by global human rights voices, this engagement sends a dangerous message of tacit approval. Shivakumar must prioritize justice and humanity over political optics."
Some reactions were more direct, calling Israel a "genocidal terrorist country" and expressing sadness over Shivakumar's diplomatic engagement.
The incident highlights the growing divide in public opinion over India's relationship with Israel. While diplomatic and business ties between the two countries have expanded in recent years, many in India continue to express strong support for the Palestinian cause, particularly in the wake of the ongoing violence in Gaza, which has resulted in thousands of civilian casualties.
As of now, DK Shivakumar has not issued a response to the backlash. The Congress party, which has historically voiced support for Palestine, is also yet to comment on the matter.
Had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Inbal Stone, Deputy Consul General - Consulate General of Israel, in Vidhana Soudha today. She graciously extended an invitation to attend Israel’s Independence Day celebrations on June 5th.
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) May 27, 2025
We value the growing partnership between Karnataka and… pic.twitter.com/PWeRNMf8Zo
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Man killed in flat ceiling plaster crash, wife and son hurt
Thane (PTI): A 45-year-old man was killed, and his wife and son were injured when a portion of plaster from the ceiling collapsed in their flat in a seven-storey building in Thane on Saturday, officials said.
Chief of the Regional Disaster Management Cell, Yasin Tadvi, said the 16-year-old building is not listed in the "dangerous" category.
"The incident occurred in Karumdev Society at about 3 am. The plaster of the hall in a flat on the terrace floor suddenly fell while the occupants were asleep", he said.
Of the four people who were inside the room, two suffered minor injuries and were discharged after primary treatment, Tadvi stated.
The injured persons were identified as Arpita More (42), who suffered minor head injuries, and her son Arush More (16), who sustained injuries to both legs.
Manoj More (45), who sustained chest injuries, died during treatment at a private hospital.
