Karnataka’s Congress government on Thursday decided to frame rules to regulate activities of private organisations, including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), in public places and government premises, potentially making it the first state to take such a step.
The decision follows a request by IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge, who had written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking a ban on RSS activities in schools, colleges, and public spaces. Speaking after the cabinet meeting, Kharge said, “We cannot control any organisation, but 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 added that the new rules would cover government schools, colleges, government-owned and aided institutions. He emphasised that marching with sticks or holding rallies would require prior permission from authorities. “All these things will be part of the rules we are going to introduce,” he said, adding that the rules would be enforced within the framework of law and the Constitution within the next two to three days.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil said the cabinet discussed complaints about private organisations using public properties. “The cabinet directs the Home department to issue a Government Order to regulate the use of public properties, including educational institutions, to prevent trespassing and ensure proper usage,” he said. Patil added that the objective was not targeted at any group but to prevent unauthorised activities and protect government and institutional properties.
To counter BJP criticism, the government released a 2013 circular from the Jagadish Shettar-led administration, which restricted school premises and playgrounds for educational purposes only. Kharge questioned why RSS continued to hold activities despite the circular, saying, “Even as the circular remains in force, the organisation named RSS is shamelessly treating schools as the property of Hedgewar’s family to conduct its activities.”
The cabinet’s move comes amid ongoing concerns that RSS shakhas in government institutions and public grounds influence children and youth with “negative ideas,” according to Kharge, who has urged the Chief Minister to take strict action.
