• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Karnataka RSS Row: The Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday slammed Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge over the removal of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's publicity material in Chittapur taluk in the Kalaburagi district ahead of a major event of RSS. However, Kharge alleged RSS had not taken permission for the programme. The controversy was related to the RSS's scheduled event, 'Patha Sanchalana', a route march seen as its show of strength.

The RSS event was slated to be held at a time when the Congress government decided to implement rules on holding events in public places and government spaces.

RSS Flags, Flex, Banners And Posters Removed

On Saturday, RSS flags, flex, banners and posters in Chittapur Taluk were removed, triggering a row in the state. The controversy turned towards Kharge, the IT/BT minister, as he represents the Chittapur Assembly constituency. The action was seen as one aimed apparently at checking the RSS, with Kharge himself flagging the need for such restrictions with the chief minister a few days ago.

Kharge had recently written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asking him to ban RSS activities in government institutions and public premises and prohibit government officers and employees from taking part in its activities.

The Karnataka cabinet on Thursday decided to prohibit private organisations from holding any event in government schools and colleges and public places without prior permission of the authorities.

ALSO READ: 'From Fragile Five To Top Five': PM Modi Hails India's Economic Growth Trajectory In Past 11 Years

BJP Attacks Kharge

Flaying Kharge, BJP leader R Ashoka posted on 'X', "Is Chittapur in India or is it the Republic of the Kharge family." Responding, Kharge asked," Have (RSS) they taken permission for it." He said he was also fined for putting up posters and banners without permission from the authorities. "The information I have is that they (RSS) have just given intimation about their event but they have not taken permission. Is the RSS flag the national flag of India. They are putting a flag illegally and are blaming us for it," he added.

He claimed that a BJP functionary threatened him, saying that RSS volunteers are 'fanatics' who will enter his house and beat him up. "I am going to lodge a complaint with the Director General of Police," Kharge said.

(With PTI inputs)

Also In News