“If You Don’t Follow the Law, Action Will Be Taken”: Priyank Kharge Issues Warning to BJP Over RSS Events in Karnataka

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Bengaluru: In a bold move that has escalated political tensions in Karnataka, Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge issued a firm warning to BJP leaders on Friday, stating that legal action will be taken if rules governing public events are ignored. The warning comes in response to BJP leaders asserting they would continue organising Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities unabated across the state.

Kharge, speaking to reporters, highlighted the government’s recent decision mandating that all organisations must secure prior permission before conducting any event in public spaces, parks, government schools, grounds, or government-aided institutions. “The law we are bringing in is very clear. If you don’t like it and you don’t follow it, action will be taken against those who violate it. One has to obtain permission — it’s as simple as that,” he said.

Taking a jibe at the BJP’s planned foot march in his Chittapur constituency, Kharge added, “They want to come in RSS uniform in my constituency? Let the children of BJP leaders wear the uniform — I will welcome them. But rules must be followed.” He further accused BJP leaders of repeatedly visiting Kalaburagi district not to address public issues but solely to stage protests against him.

The political standoff has intensified ahead of an RSS foot march scheduled in Chittapur on October 19, seen as a direct challenge to Kharge. BJP leaders, including Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka, have openly dared the government to act, while BJP MLA S.R. Vishwanath encouraged party members to set the RSS anthem ‘Namaste Sada Vatsale’ as their mobile ringtone.

In support of Kharge, Congress workers staged protests in various districts, reinforcing the minister’s stance on regulating public events.

The Karnataka government, during a recent cabinet meeting, clarified its position on public spaces. An official statement read, “Government properties, parks, playgrounds, public roads, and open spaces are designated for rightful use by citizens. Unauthorised activities by private organisations pose a threat to public safety and disrupt law and order. Hence, prior permission is mandatory for all such events.”

The statement further stressed that many private organisations have, in the past, used public spaces for propaganda, training, and gatherings without informing authorities — an act considered trespass and a risk to public safety. The new regulations aim to ensure that citizens’ rights are protected while maintaining law and order across the state.

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