Chittapur Deadlock: RSS Assures Govt Of Peaceful March As Talks Remain Inconclusive
Chittapur, Karnataka – A critical juncture has been reached in the ongoing dispute surrounding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) route march planned for Chittapur. Despite assurances from the RSS regarding a peaceful procession, talks between the organization, government officials, and various community groups have failed to yield a consensus. The deadlock persists as the November 2nd march date approaches, with the Karnataka High Court now poised to review the matter.
The controversy began when the local administration initially denied permission for the RSS to conduct its route march, citing potential law and order concerns. This denial prompted the RSS to appeal to the Karnataka High Court, which directed the district administration to convene a peace meeting involving all stakeholders. The court also instructed the RSS to submit a fresh application seeking permission for the march to be held on November 2nd.
Chaired by Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Taranum, the meeting included representatives from ten organizations, including the RSS, Bhim Army, Bharatiya Dalit Panthers, and various other community groups. The primary objective was to address concerns and find common ground, but significant disagreements quickly surfaced.
Several organizations voiced strong objections to the RSS march, particularly the proposed use of lathis (sticks) and the Bhagavadwaja (saffron flag). They argued that these symbols could incite tensions and disrupt communal harmony. Some groups suggested that the RSS instead carry the national flag and the preamble of the Constitution. However, RSS representatives firmly rejected this proposal, asserting their right to conduct the march with their traditional symbols. BJP SC Morcha state vice-president Ambaraya Ashtagi insisted that the RSS had every right to hold a peaceful march using its official symbols.
Adding to the complexity, some organizations questioned the legality of granting permission to the RSS, referring to it as an unregistered organization. Concerns were also raised about potential law and order issues, especially in light of a reported threat against Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge. Kharge had previously raised concerns about RSS activities being carried out on government land without permission and sought curbs to regulate the use of government-owned grounds, parks, temples, and other areas.
Dinesh Dodamani of the Karnataka Rajya Chalavadi Kshemabhivraddi Sangh voiced a strong sentiment against the march, stating, "This is the land of Buddha. Allowing RSS marches with sticks will destroy the peace here". Following the inconclusive meeting, supporters of Minister Kharge protested outside the deputy commissioner's office, accusing the RSS and BJP of disturbing Chittapur's communal harmony.
Despite the lack of consensus, the RSS has assured the government of its commitment to a peaceful march. However, with other groups also seeking to hold rallies on the same day, the potential for clashes remains a significant concern. The district administration is now preparing a detailed report to submit to the Karnataka High Court, which is scheduled to hear the case on October 30th. The court will likely consider the arguments and concerns raised by all parties before making a final decision on whether to allow the RSS route march to proceed as planned. The outcome of this legal process will be crucial in determining the future of public gatherings and the balance between freedom of expression and maintaining public order in the region.
