Authorities in Chittapur, Karnataka, have denied permission for a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) route march and Vijayadashami program that was scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025. The decision was made, according to officials, due to concerns about potential disruptions to peace and law and order. This denial has sparked a political controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticizing the decision and likening the state government's actions to those of "Kim Jong Un".
The Chittapur Town Municipal Council had already removed cut-outs and banners erected by the RSS on the main road on Saturday, citing that they were installed before permission for the march was granted. The Chittapur tahsildar stated in an order dated October 18 that permission for the RSS march was denied to prevent disruption of peace and law and order in Chittapur and to avoid any untoward incidents.
The state government had also issued an order on Saturday mandating prior permission for any private organization, association, or group to use government property or premises. This order was based on a Cabinet decision on Thursday, which was prompted by a letter from Panchayat Raj and IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking a ban on RSS activities in public places.
According to the Tahsildar, a report was requested from the Police Sub-Inspector of Chittapur Police Station. The police report indicated that the Bhim Army had also submitted a letter seeking permission to hold a procession on the same route. Furthermore, intelligence inputs suggested that the RSS foot march was deliberately organized in response to the arrest of an RSS worker who allegedly threatened Minister Priyank Kharge. Additionally, workers from the Bharatiya Dalit Panthers party submitted a letter requesting permission to conduct a protest rally on the same route. The potential for clashes between these groups was cited as a reason for denying permission to all processions. Bhim Army members announced they would hold a protest march on October 20.
The BJP has strongly condemned the denial of permission, with leaders like Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka accusing the Congress government of acting like the "Nizam of Chittapur" and calling it an "emergency-style crackdown". The BJP has also said that the RSS's 100-year legacy "can't be shaken". BJP Karnataka chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa called the ruling party "anti-Hindu" and said the government was misusing its machinery. The Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, objected to the denial of permission and the removal of banners, calling it an arbitrary act. He also criticized Minister Priyank Kharge, calling him arrogant and irresponsible.
The RSS has approached the Kalaburagi Bench of the High Court challenging the Chittapur Tahsildar's order denying permission for its centenary procession. BJP leaders are optimistic that the court will grant permission for the procession.
The Congress party has not yet responded to the BJP's allegations. Tensions remain high in Chittapur as the RSS has been denied permission to hold its march.
