Priyank Kharge (left), MohanBhagwat (File – agencies)
NEW DELHI: The Karnataka cabinet on Thursday decided to frame new rules to regulate Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities, including marches and events held on government-owned properties and public roads, information technology and biotechnology minister Priyank Kharge said, according to PTI.The decision follows a letter from Kharge to chief minister Siddaramaiah, seeking a ban on RSS activities and those of its affiliated organizations in public and government spaces.
Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting, Kharge said, “The rules we want to bring is regarding public places, government schools, colleges, government premises, government owned institutions and aided institutions. We will bring together the previous orders issued by the home department, law department, and the education department to frame a new rule. In the next two to three days, the new rule will come into force within the framework of law and the Constitution.”He clarified that while the government cannot control any organization outright, “from now on you cannot do whatever you want in public places or roads. Whatever you have to do, it has to be done after seeking the government’s permission.”Kharge further explained that granting permission will be at the government’s discretion. “There are parameters to grant permission… You cannot walk on the road waving sticks or take out ‘Patha Sanchalana’ (march) just by giving intimation to the authorities. All these things will be part of the rules we are going to introduce,” he added.The move comes amid ongoing concerns expressed by Congress over RSS activities in government institutions and public spaces, underscoring the state government’s intention to regulate public demonstrations and maintain order.