Karnataka Government Plans Action Against RSS, May Ban Activities in Government Schools and Colleges

Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu): The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government is preparing to impose restrictions on the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) within government schools and college campuses. State Minister Priyank Kharge informed on Thursday, October 16, that the government is considering introducing new rules in this regard.

The issue gained attention after Priyank Kharge, son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, wrote a letter urging the Chief Minister to strictly prevent government officials and employees from participating in RSS or similar organizations’ programs.

In his letter, Priyank Kharge cited the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, emphasizing that no government employee should be a member of any political party or organization involved in political activities, nor should they participate in political movements or events. He pointed out that despite clear rules, some government officials have recently been observed participating in RSS activities, which needs to be stopped immediately.

Priyank Kharge extended his demand beyond government employees, requesting a ban on RSS branches and activities in government and aided schools, as well as public spaces. Following this demand, he claimed to have received death threats over the phone and shared a video showing an unknown person verbally abusing him and issuing warnings of severe consequences.

Considering the seriousness of the matter, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured enhanced security for Priyank Kharge, while Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the government is taking the threats very seriously.

On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) reacted sharply to the Congress government’s stance. BJP criticized Priyank Kharge and challenged him to impose a statewide ban on RSS, escalating the political confrontation between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP in Karnataka.