Cong Blocks RSS March, BJP Slams ‘Sanghphobia’ As Tensions Rise in Karnataka.

Tensions Rise in Karnataka as Congress Government Blocks RSS March and Shakha in Public Places, Govt Institutions.

B Upendran | HENB | Bengaluru | Oct 19, 2025:: The Karnataka government has denied permission for a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) route march in Chittapur, sparking controversy and accusations of “Sanghphobia” from the BJP. According to news reports, the permission was denied citing potential disruptions to peace and law and order.

The RSS is observing its centenary this year across the country through various rallies, programs, and route marches for ‘Hindu awakening’.

Prianyak Kharge’s Proposal

Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge recently wrote a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah proposing a ban on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in government institutions and public premises across the state. Kharge claims that the RSS’s actions undermine national unity and constitutional values, and has urged the CM to take immediate action. Followers of Kharge in Congress have also questioned why the RSS is an unregistered organization and doesn’t pay any tax despite collecting huge amounts of money.

In his letter, Kharge alleged that the RSS has been conducting its gatherings in government and aided schools, public grounds, and temples, where “slogans are shouted and negative ideas are instilled in the minds of children and youth”. He also expressed concerns about the potential psychological impact of RSS activities on children and young people.

Finally, Karnataka Cabinet approves new rules as, ‘no activities allowed in public places without permission‘.

The proposal has sparked controversy, with BJP leaders criticizing Kharge’s move as “politically motivated” and “anti-Hindu”. The party has launched an “I Love RSS” campaign in response, with supporters arguing that the RSS is a symbol of patriotism and unity.

Recent Incident Sparks Controversy

This incident follows the suspension of a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) in Sirwar taluk for participating in an RSS event while wearing the organization’s uniform, known as Ganavesha, at Lingsagur in Raichur district on October 12. The suspension has sparked debate about government employees’ involvement in political or ideological activities.

BJP leaders have condemned the government’s move, with MP Tejasvi Surya vowing to challenge the suspension of a Panchayat Development Officer in court. “We are not teaching them… how to manufacture explosives, how to attack, how to detonate, and all that as they do in the Madrasas,” the BJP spokesperson controversially stated.

Key Developments

– RSS March Blocked: Authorities in Chittapur denied permission for the RSS route march, citing potential disruptions to peace and law and order.
– PDO Suspension: A Panchayat Development Officer was suspended for participating in an RSS event while wearing the organization’s uniform.
– Allegations of Bias: Critics argue that the government’s actions demonstrate a bias against the RSS, while other religious groups face no restrictions  for holding street Namaz.

Allegations of Selective Restrictions

Critics argue that the government’s actions demonstrate a bias against the RSS, while other religious groups seem to face no restrictions. For instance, Friday Namaz and Islamic Jalsa events have reportedly been allowed to take place in public places and Govt institutions without impediments, with participants blocking roads in the state. This perceived inconsistency has fueled the controversy, with the BJP accusing the Congress government of applying different standards.

Government’s Stance

The Siddaramaiah government is reportedly studying the Tamil Nadu model, where permissions and restrictions on such events are in place, indicating a potential policy shift in Karnataka. The government’s decision to block the RSS march has sparked tensions between the Congress government and the RSS, with implications for the state’s political landscape.

Hindutvaphobia of Congress shaped as Sanghphobia

Amidst the controversy surrounding the RSS’s activities in Karnataka, the “Hindutvaphobia” of Congress has now been reframed as “Sanghphobia,” as evident. Congress has been exposed now as anti-Hindu in Karnataka. As the situation continues to unfold, the state’s political landscape is likely to remain charged, with both sides dug in and unwilling to back down. The issue has raised questions about the balance between ideological freedom and national unity, and it remains to be seen how the government will navigate these complex issues.

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_Inputs from Agencies and Times Now.