Bengaluru, October 18, 2025 – A controversy has erupted in Karnataka following the suspension of a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO), Praveen Kumar KP, for attending a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) event. The suspension has drawn sharp reactions, with BJP MP Tejasvi Surya vocally supporting the officer and condemning the state government's action.
Praveen Kumar KP, a PDO from Sirwar taluk in the Raichur district, was suspended by the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Department on Friday, October 12. The reason cited for his suspension was his participation in an RSS centenary route march in Lingsugur, where he was seen wearing the organization's uniform and carrying a stick.
The suspension order, issued by IAS officer Arundhati Chandrashekar, stated that Kumar's participation violated Rule 3 of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021. These rules mandate that government officials maintain political neutrality, uphold integrity, and conduct themselves appropriately. The order further stated that Kumar's actions fell short of the standards expected of a public servant. He will remain suspended with subsistence allowance pending a departmental inquiry.
Tejasvi Surya, the BJP MP from Bengaluru South, has strongly criticized the suspension, calling it an "act of high-handedness". He has pledged full legal support to Praveen Kumar, asserting that he will personally challenge the suspension in court. Surya stated that there are multiple High Court judgements that uphold the right of government servants to attend RSS programs.
The suspension has ignited a political firestorm in Karnataka, with the BJP accusing the Congress government of having an "anti-Hindu mindset" and misusing government machinery. Karnataka BJP chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa condemned the suspension, calling it an "assault on patriotic sentiments". He demanded the immediate revocation of the suspension and an apology, threatening a democratic response if the government fails to comply.
The Congress party, however, has defended the suspension, stating that it was necessary to enforce service conduct rules and maintain political neutrality. IT and RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge has been a vocal proponent of restricting RSS activities in government institutions and has called for strict action against government employees linked to the organization. Kharge maintains that the action is not targeted at any religion but is aimed at enforcing disciplinary norms.
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of increasing tensions between the Karnataka government and the RSS. The state cabinet recently decided to frame new rules to regulate RSS activities, including marches and events, held on government-owned properties and public roads. This decision followed a letter from Minister Kharge to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking a ban on RSS activities in public and government spaces. The government has also mandated that all organizations obtain prior permission to hold events in public spaces.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has defended the new regulations, stating that any organization must seek prior permission for events, a procedure that was also followed during Jagadish Shettar's tenure as Chief Minister. He has also criticized the BJP for its selective criticism regarding the denial of permission for an RSS procession in Chittapur.
In response to the restrictions, the RSS has announced plans for a march in Minister Kharge's Chittapur constituency on October 19, challenging the new regulations. Local authorities have begun removing saffron flags and banners erected in preparation for the event, while Kharge has warned of legal action if the rules are violated.
