Hassan, 15 Oct

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said the Karnataka government intends to restrict the activities of not only the RSS but also any organisation that causes disturbance at schools, public premises, or parks. He added that officials are studying measures taken by neighbouring Tamil Nadu in this regard.

He had earlier stated on Monday that he had directed the Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to examine Tamil Nadu’s actions regarding the ban on RSS activities on government premises.

"Not only RSS, but any organisation should not do anything that disturbs others at schools, public premises, and parks. Tamil Nadu has taken steps to this effect. We are gathering information on what Tamil Nadu has done," Siddaramaiah told reporters in response to a question.

The remarks follow a recent appeal by Minister Priyank Kharge, who urged Siddaramaiah to impose a ban on all RSS activities in government institutions and public premises across the state, saying such actions are contrary to India’s unity and the spirit of the Constitution.

In a letter to the chief minister dated 4 October, Kharge, son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been conducting its ‘shakhas’ in government and government-aided schools, as well as on public grounds, where "slogans are shouted and negative ideas are instilled in the minds of children and youth." 

Priyank gets abusive call, CM says will increase security

Bengaluru/Mysuru, 15 Oct

Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday shared a video of an abusive call he received, allegedly from an RSS supporter, after he demanded a ban on RSS activities in government institutions.

In the video, the caller is heard hurling casteist and derogatory abuse. Kharge questioned whether such behaviour is taught in RSS shakhas and if leaders like PM Modi and Mohan Bhagwat endorse it.
“This is a glimpse of the filth being filled in young minds,” Kharge posted on X. “Our fight is not against individuals but against the dangerous ideology polluting innocent youth.”

He vowed to protect youth from radicalisation, urging the spread of teachings by Buddha, Basava, and Ambedkar to counter extremism.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah backed Kharge, stating his government is taking the threat seriously and his security will be increased.

“What is wrong in the minister’s letter? He has only asked for a ban on RSS activities in government spaces, like Tamil Nadu,” the CM said in Mysuru.

He confirmed that Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh has been tasked with reviewing Tamil Nadu’s approach. “Once we receive the report, we will take a decision,” he added.

On BJP criticism, Siddaramaiah said the party had issued similar threats before the polls but was decisively defeated.