Facing RSS Backlash, Karnataka Govt May Drop Bill Regulating Public Space Use
The Karnataka government is reportedly considering dropping its proposed "Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Properties Bill – 2025" amid significant backlash and internal dissent. The bill, initially intended to regulate the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and other organizations in public spaces, has faced criticism for potentially curtailing freedom of assembly and being perceived as targeting a specific ideology.
The controversy began after IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that the RSS was operating branches in government and aided schools, as well as on public grounds, promoting "negative ideologies" among children and youth. Kharge also reportedly cited Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which restricts government servants from associating with political parties or organizations. This prompted the cabinet to consider new regulations governing the activities of organizations like the RSS in public spaces, government schools and colleges, government offices, institutions, and grant-aided organizations.
The proposed bill would have required private organizations to seek prior permission for events on government premises, with violations potentially leading to imprisonment and fines. First-time offenders could face up to two years in prison and a ₹50,000 fine, while repeat offenses could result in up to three years imprisonment and a ₹1 lakh fine, along with an additional daily fine of ₹5,000.
However, the bill faced immediate resistance. Critics argued that the provisions were too broad and could impact various community and cultural organizations using public spaces for non-political events. Concerns were also raised that the bill could be viewed as an attack on a particular ideology, potentially strengthening the BJP's narrative of "anti-Hindu governance" and causing an electoral backlash.
Several senior Congress leaders reportedly advised the Chief Minister to distance the government from the proposal, fearing political damage. During a cabinet meeting, both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar reportedly cautioned Kharge that such a bill would "unnecessarily provide publicity to the RSS" and deepen communal polarization.
Faced with internal revolt and mounting criticism, the government appears to have retreated from its initial plan. Instead of pursuing the controversial bill, the cabinet has decided to issue a government order to regulate the use of public places by private or non-governmental organizations. This order will require prior permission before using public places, including schools and colleges, and will apply to all private organizations. Deputy commissioners have been instructed to evaluate requests for public gatherings on a case-by-case basis, considering local conditions before granting permission.
While the government maintains that the new regulations will apply uniformly to all organizations, the move is widely seen as an attempt to address concerns about RSS activities without enacting a potentially divisive law. Minister Priyank Kharge stated that the government aims to create a good atmosphere and implement the "Buddha, Basava, Ambedkar" philosophy. The new rules are expected to come into effect soon, operating within the framework of the law and the Constitution.
