Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has stated that his government is taking action to restrict the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in public spaces, emphasizing that no organization should disturb people in public places. This decision follows a formal request from Minister Priyank Kharge to ban RSS activities in government institutions and public premises across the state. Kharge's request is rooted in the belief that the RSS's actions contradict India's unity and the spirit of the Constitution.
Kharge, the Minister for Information Technology/Biotechnology, Rural Development, and Panchayat Raj, penned a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on October 4, alleging that the RSS has been conducting its 'shakhas' in government and government-aided schools, as well as on public grounds. He raised concerns that "slogans are shouted and negative ideas are instilled in the minds of children and youth" at these gatherings. The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) shared the letter with the media on Sunday.
Kharge asserted that the RSS's belief system is "contrary to India's ideals of unity and secular framework". He argued that the Constitution grants the authority to curb divisive elements that sow hatred and to uphold the secular values of the nation. He also alleged that the RSS conducts "aggressive displays...while wielding sticks" without obtaining police permission, which he believes "could have a harmful psychological impact on children and young people".
Kharge has called for a ban on all types of RSS activities, whether under the name of 'shakha', 'sanghik', or 'baithak'. He specified that the ban should extend to government schools, government-aided schools, public playgrounds, parks, temples under the Muzrai Department, sites under the Archaeology Department, and any other government premises.
Siddaramaiah has also raised concerns about an organization named “200 Ana YM Seva Sangha,” which he says is using public spaces to influence children and young people with messages contrary to the principles of the Indian Constitution. He emphasized that such activities, often carried out without police permission, are aggressive and risk negatively impacting the minds of children and youth.
In response to Kharge's letter, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has asked Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to examine the matter and take appropriate action. He has also directed that RSS shakha meetings should not be held on the premises of government and government-aided schools, public grounds, and other state government lands. Additionally, Siddaramaiah has instructed the Chief Secretary to review the actions taken by the Tamil Nadu government regarding its ban on the RSS from conducting activities in government spaces.
The BJP has reacted strongly, calling the move an attempt by the Congress to divert public attention from governance failures and internal power struggles. BJP state president BY Vijayendra claimed that the move showed growing intolerance in Congress towards the Sangh's increasing popularity and that the RSS has remained a steadfast nationalist force.
This is not the first time the RSS has faced bans in India. The organization was outlawed during Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975 and again in 1992 following the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. However, in July 2024, the Union government lifted a 58-year-old ban that prohibited government employees from participating in RSS activities.
The current situation in Karnataka is likely to spark debate over the use of government spaces for socio-political activities and the role of state authorities in regulating public gatherings, especially those involving children and youth.
