Karnataka Cabinet Approves Measures to Regulate RSS Activities in Public and Government Spaces

Amid growing controversy over Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge’s recent letter calling for a ban on RSS activities.

The state cabinet on Thursday approved measures to regulate the organisation’s public presence and events in government institutions. The rules will cover marches, rallies, and other activities on public roads, in government-owned premises, and in aided institutions.

The move comes days after Kharge, the Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister, wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah requesting a ban on RSS activities and those of its affiliated groups in Karnataka, PTI reported.

Speaking to the media after the cabinet meeting, Kharge clarified that the new rules would not curtail an organisation outright but would require prior government permission for any public or institutional activity. “We cannot control any organisation, but from now on you cannot do whatever you want in public places or on roads. Any activity will have to be carried out after seeking government approval,” Kharge said.

The guidelines will specify parameters for approval, including restrictions on marching with sticks or conducting “Patha Sanchalana” (processions) based solely on prior intimation to authorities. The rules will apply to public spaces, government schools and colleges, government premises, government-owned institutions, and aided institutions, he added.

Kharge further explained that the new regulations would consolidate previous directives from the Home, Law, and Education Departments. The cabinet aims to bring the rules into effect within two to three days, within the framework of the law and the Constitution.

Political Fallout

The minister’s letter sparked a political dispute, with BJP leader BY Vijayendra clashing with Kharge over the proposed ban. The row intensified after Kharge sought restrictions on RSS activities in government and aided schools, as well as in public spaces, triggering a heated debate between Congress and BJP leaders.

The Karnataka government’s latest move signals an effort to regulate organisational activities in public and institutional spaces while navigating a politically sensitive landscape.