Chittapur, Karnataka: Local authorities in Chittapur town, Kalaburagi district, have denied permission for an RSS route march scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025, citing potential law and order disruptions. The decision comes amid tensions, as the Bhim Army and Indian Dalit Panthers also sought permission to hold marches along the same route.

State rules and municipal actions

The move follows a recent state government order requiring prior permission for private organisations to use government property. On Saturday, the Chittapur Town Municipal Council removed RSS banners and cut-outs from the main road under police supervision, stating that these were installed without the necessary approval.

IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge had written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, requesting a ban on RSS activities in public spaces. The Chittapur tahsildar issued an order on October 18, stating:

“To prevent disruption of peace and law and order in Chittapur and to avoid any untoward incidents, permission for the RSS route march scheduled for 19-10-2025 is hereby denied, and the request application is rejected.”

Clash of schedules heightens tensions

The RSS had applied to conduct a route march and Vijayadashami programme at 3 PM on October 19 to commemorate the organisation’s centenary and festival celebrations. The situation became more complicated when the Bhim Army informed authorities of their intention to hold a march on the same route and date, following an incident in which an RSS worker allegedly threatened Minister Priyank Kharge, prompting protests across Karnataka.

The tahsildar noted:

“If the RSS, Bhim Army and Indian Dalit Panthers conduct processions in Chittapur town along the same route, there is a high possibility of clashes between the groups, which could disturb public peace and law and order. This assessment has been confirmed based on information collected from the public and police informants.”

Opposition groups seek permission

The Bhim Army State Youth Wing, Kalaburagi, opposed the RSS march, stating it was deliberately planned against the minister’s statement. They, along with the Indian Dalit Panthers, requested permission for their own march along the same route. Police and intelligence reports confirmed that simultaneous processions by these groups could adversely affect law and order, justifying the denial.

A case regarding threats against Minister Kharge had also been registered at Bengaluru’s Sadashivanagar Police Station.

The tahsildar concluded:

“Since simultaneous processions by the RSS, Bhim Army, and Indian Dalit Panthers on October 19 in Chittapur may lead to disturbances and adversely affect law and order, it is deemed inappropriate to grant permission.”