Karnataka Imposes Ban on Unauthorized Use of Public Property, Denies Permission for RSS March
New government order mandates prior approval for gatherings of more than 10 people on public land.
Bengaluru (Fikrokhabar News): The Karnataka government has issued a new Government Order (GO) placing strict restrictions on the unauthorized use of public property such as roads, parks, playgrounds, and other open spaces. This decision comes following recommendations from the state’s Director General of Police, M.A. Saleem.
Under the new directive, any organization or group of more than ten people planning to hold a public gathering, march, or rally must now obtain prior permission from the concerned district authorities — either the District Commissioner or the Police Commissioner. The request must be submitted at least three days in advance.
The government stated that several private organizations have been using public spaces without approval, leading to damage and maintenance challenges for the authorities. As per the new rules, organizers will be held responsible for any damage to public property and must pay compensation if required.
Events related to weddings and funerals are exempt from this rule.
Permission Denied for RSS Route March in Chittapur
Authorities in Chittapur, which falls under the constituency of Minister Priyank Kharge, have denied permission for a route march planned by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on October 19. Officials cited concerns over potential law and order issues.
The local municipal council, under police supervision, also removed banners and cut-outs put up by the RSS without official approval.
The RSS had planned the march as part of its Vijayadashami celebrations. However, on the same day, the Bhim Army and the Indian Dalit Panthers also applied to hold rallies along the same route. In view of possible clashes or tensions, authorities rejected all three requests.
Tensions Escalate After Threat to Minister
According to a police report, tensions rose after an RSS worker, Danish Naravan, allegedly issued a death threat to Minister Priyank Kharge on October 16. A case was registered at the Sadashivanagar Police Station in Bengaluru, and protests have since erupted across the state in response to the incident.
RSS Appeals in High Court
In response to the denied permission, RSS representatives have approached the Karnataka High Court, seeking approval to hold a rally on November 2. The court has instructed the Kalaburagi district administration to review the new request and submit a report by October 24.
Tejasvi Surya Offers Legal Support to Suspended Official
Meanwhile, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya has extended legal assistance to Praveen Kumar K.P., a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) who was suspended for attending an RSS event. Surya stated that he had personally spoken to the officer and assured him of full legal support to challenge what he called an “unlawful suspension” in court.
