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Karnataka Government Moves to Restrict RSS Activities in Government Premises

Karnataka Government Moves to Restrict RSS Activities in Government Premises

In a major policy proposal stirring political and public debate, the Karnataka government is considering a ban on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) holding shakhas (meetings), baithaks, or any public events on government owned or aided premises. This move follows a formal request from Minister Priyank Kharge and has led to sharp criticism from opposition parties.

What Has Been Proposed

  • Minister Priyank Kharge wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on October 4, urging a ban on RSS activities in government and government  aided schools, public grounds, parks, temples under government control, archaeological sites, and any government land.
  • Kharge’s letter argues that some RSS shakhas in such premises are being held without police permission, with displays such as carrying sticks (lathis), raising slogans, and potentially instilling “negative ideas” in youth and students. He claimed these activities are not in line with constitutional values of unity, equality, and secularism.
  • Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed the Chief Secretary to review the action taken by Tamil Nadu concerning their ban on RSS activities in government premises, as a possible precedent for Karnataka.

Reactions from Government Leaders

  • Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao strongly backed the proposal. He described RSS as a “political organisation,” not just a cultural one, arguing that it has played roles in forming and influencing governments and that government spaces should not be used for their activities.
  • Other Congress leaders have expressed concern about public order, the influence of ideological groups on children, and the need for stricter oversight of all organizations using public property.

Opposition & Criticism

  • The BJP has condemned the move, calling it politically motivated. Party leaders circulated an old photograph of Mallikarjun Kharge attending an RSS event in 2002 to highlight what they called the Congress’ “double standards.”
  • BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra alleged that the proposed ban is a political gimmick intended to divert attention from governance issues and appeal to minority vote banks.

Implications & Issues to Watch

If implemented, this policy could restrict RSS’s ability to use public infrastructure for its activities in several districts especially urban areas where government grounds and school playgrounds are common venues.

  • Questions remain over legal enforceability:
  • Would such a ban require cabinet approval?
  • Can police permissions override such restrictions?

Would this infringe on the constitutional right to freedom of assembly or religion?

  • Public sentiment appears divided some see the move as necessary to prevent ideological polarization, while others view it as suppression of legitimate cultural activities.

What’s Next

  • The Chief Minister’s directive to review Tamil Nadu’s example suggests the state government is seriously evaluating formal restrictions. Officials may soon draft rules or notifications to implement the ban, which could face legal challenges in the High Court.
  • Monitoring how local administrations respond whether notices are issued or shakhas are evicted from public premises will show whether this proposal translates into concrete action.

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