Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Sunday accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of attempting to provoke unrest by suddenly seeking permission for a route march in Chittapur, soon after he received abusive calls and death threats allegedly from its supporters. Speaking to ANI, Kharge said the organisation had remained silent for months but decided to act immediately after the threats surfaced.
Minister questions RSS timing and intent
Kharge questioned the RSS’s timing and motivation behind the proposed centenary march, asserting that the move appeared to be a reaction to his stance against their activities.
“You should ask the RSS about the timing of the march. They kept quiet for so long, and suddenly, when I got abusive calls and death threats from their goons, they wanted to prove a point and do the march there themselves,” Kharge said.
The minister emphasised that verbal abuse and threats against public representatives could set a dangerous precedent. “If you’re going to abuse the public representative, other people and organisations will also get emboldened to do such things. It’s my duty to ensure that nothing untoward happens,” he added.
Authorities deny permission for RSS march
The Karnataka government recently denied permission for the RSS’s centenary march in Chittapur, citing concerns over maintaining law and order. Local officials, supported by police intelligence, concluded that simultaneous rallies planned by multiple groups could lead to tensions.
Kharge noted that no local group had applied for permission to conduct the event. “If the march is going to be held by any association, please submit documents of the association where they are registered. No local person has approached for permission. Just some people from the headquarters have written to the police,” he stated.
He further assured that the situation in Chittapur remained peaceful but reiterated that the government’s priority was to maintain order.
RSS asked to refile plea after court directive
The Karnataka High Court recently directed the RSS to file a fresh petition on November 2, while hearing its plea seeking permission to conduct the march. The matter is listed for further hearing on October 24.
Kharge, who represents Chittapur constituency, said the state government and local administration were within their rights to deny permission based on current circumstances. “The environment is not favourable because the RSS abused the sitting MLA and issued death threats. They went to court seeking permission for this unlawful gathering. Even the court has acknowledged law and order concerns,” he said.
Other organisations also denied permission
The minister clarified that the RSS was not being singled out. Similar requests from the Bhim Army, Indian Dalit Panthers, and a citizens’ forum had also been rejected. “More than three organisations have asked to do a march past in Chittapur. And all three have been declined by the local authorities, citing that everyone is asking at the same time,” Kharge said.
He maintained that the administration would act strictly according to the law and ensure that peace was preserved. “Maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the local authorities and the state government. If the state government does not deem it fit, they can deny the permission and consider the request another time,” he added.
Row over RSS activities in public spaces
The controversy stems from Kharge’s earlier request to ban RSS activities in government schools, colleges, and state-owned temples. He had also proposed new legislation to strengthen restrictions preventing government employees from participating in political or ideological programmes.
The issue has since become a flashpoint in state politics, with the government defending its decision as a matter of administrative prudence, while opposition groups accuse it of targeting the RSS unfairly.
As the situation unfolds, the state is likely to face further debates on balancing freedom of association with public safety concerns.