RSS Route March Ban: Karnataka Congress MLA Points Out Hypocrisy Citing Namaz On Road.

‘Muslims offer Namaz on Road. Do they take permission?’: Karnataka Congress MLA Rajanna questions ban of RSS activities; urges practical laws. Govt’s Move also Faces Court’s Ire.

B Upendran | HENB | Bengaluru | Oct 20, 2025:: Veteran Karnataka Congress MLA K N Rajanna on Saturday questioned the government’s decision to ban RSS activities in public places and government institutions without prior permission. Rajanna, a former minister, wondered if Muslims would be required to seek permission for performing namaz on roads. “Do they take permission? Or will they listen if they’re told to get permission first?” he asked, highlighting a potential double standard in enforcement.

When RSS route marches occur once in a year, India sees traffic jams in many places due to road Namaz every Friday.

Rajanna emphasized the need for practical laws that can be enforced, stating, “Only rules which can be enforced should be made, otherwise they will remain only in the books.” He also pointed out that the government’s order seemed to be based on a letter from Minister Priyank Kharge, which only mentioned obtaining permission for RSS events, not a total ban.

The Karnataka cabinet recently decided to frame new rules to regulate RSS activities, including marches and events held on government-owned properties and public roads.”

The Karnataka government’s recent decisions have sparked controversy, particularly with regards to the RSS. Here are the key developments:

– Suspension of a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO): A PDO in Sirwar taluk was suspended for participating in an RSS event while wearing the organization’s uniform. This move has been seen as a crackdown on the RSS by the state government.
– Denial of Permission for RSS Rally: The Chittapur authorities denied permission for an RSS rally scheduled on October 19, citing potential law and order issues. The RSS had planned to hold the rally as part of its centenary celebrations.
– High Court Intervention: The RSS approached the Karnataka High Court, which allowed the organization to hold the rally on November 2. The court directed the RSS to submit a fresh application seeking permission, which would be considered by the Deputy Commissioner of Kalaburagi.
– Government’s Stand: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that the government wasn’t targeting the RSS specifically, but rather enforcing a rule that requires prior permission for rallies and processions on government property. He pointed out that this rule was framed during the previous BJP government.
– BJP’s Reaction: The BJP has criticized the government’s decision to deny permission for the RSS rally, accusing them of “Sanghphobia” and attempting to impose an “Emergency-like” administration in the state. Karnataka BJP President Vijayendra Yediyurappa welcomed the High Court’s decision, saying it upheld the Constitution.

The High Court’s decision has been seen as a setback for the Karnataka government, which had denied permission for the rally citing potential law and order issues. The court’s direction to consider the RSS’s application for permission has been welcomed by the organization.
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_Agency Inputs.