• Source:JND
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In a controversial statement, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the son of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah compared the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP to the Taliban, the armed Islamic group that reclaimed control of Afghanistan in August 2021.

The RSS has yet to respond to the comparison, which comes during the ongoing visit of Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to India.

However, the BJP reacted strongly, asserting that "no one can ban or curb the RSS."

Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra posted on X, saying, the Sangh’s “ideology of nationalism and social reform (will) always triumph over the anti-national Congress...”

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Speaking on Monday, Yathindra Siddaramaiah alleged that the RSS attempts to impose a rigid version of Hinduism, much like how the Taliban enforces strict Islamic principles through edicts.

“They (the RSS) have a similar mindset to that of the Taliban... they believe that in one religion only one view should be there. The Taliban issues diktats so Islam can be one particular way... they curtail freedom of women. Similarly, RSS also wants Hindu religion in one way only."

He further demanded restrictions on the functioning of the RSS, suggesting it should be made a registered entity. The RSS currently operates as a voluntary organisation, which grants it certain legal exemptions.

"The RSS calls itself a very big organisation... they have a building in Delhi with thousands of crores (in funds). Even then they are not registered... it is an influential organisation and they have to act per the law. If they are operating without registration then it is wrong, according to me."

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Similarly, Priyank Kharge on Sunday objected to RSS events being conducted on government properties in the state.

Priyank Kharge has written a letter to the Chief Secretary, urging that permission should not be granted for RSS programs to be conducted in government school and college grounds.

He has also appealed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, requesting that RSS programs should not be allowed in public parks and Muzrai (endowment) temples as well.