What Permissions Did the Karnataka Government Grant for the RSS Centenary March in Chittapur?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka government has granted permission for the RSS centenary procession in Chittapur, allowing 300 volunteers to join the event. This decision comes after previous law and order concerns, and the court's directive for a peaceful resolution.
Key Takeaways
- The Karnataka government has authorized the RSS centenary march in Chittapur.
- The event will occur on November 16 with 300 volunteers participating.
- Initial permission was denied due to law and order concerns.
- The court increased the number of band members to 50.
- Community dialogue was encouraged to ensure a peaceful event.
Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Nov 13 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has officially authorized the centenary celebration march of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Chittapur, located in Kalaburagi district, on Thursday.
The Advocate General, Shashi Kiran Shetty, informed the Kalaburagi bench of the Karnataka High Court regarding the government's decision.
Shetty stated before the court that the RSS foot march is scheduled for November 16.
Furthermore, he mentioned that 300 volunteers would be participating, along with 20 band members and drummers.
However, the court granted an increase in the number of band members and drummers to 50.
Initially, the district authorities had rejected the request for the RSS foot march due to law and order concerns.
The court subsequently instructed officials to engage in a peace meeting with the RSS and other involved organizations to find a peaceful resolution.
Several organizations submitted petitions requesting permission for their own processions on the same date as the RSS event.
They requested that the RSS refrains from carrying lathis or the 'Bhagwa Dhwaj' (saffron flag) during the march, instead opting for the national flag and the Preamble of the Constitution.
Chittapur is represented by Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Priyank Kharge, who is the son of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Following a letter from Priyank advocating for a ban on RSS activities in public spaces, the Karnataka government issued a directive requiring private organizations to obtain official approval before holding events in public places.
The Advocate General also informed the court that the state government had issued conditional, one-time permission for the RSS foot march.
The RSS had originally requested authorization for 800 volunteers to take part in the march.
"All relevant factors have been considered," Shetty commented, noting that in some instances, RSS foot marches have taken place with only 100 to 150 participants.
RSS counsel Arun Shyam requested the court to allow 800 participants for the event.
Upon documenting the submissions, the court concluded the case.
The RSS will conduct its foot march on November 16 from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m.
The court has sanctioned the participation of 300 RSS volunteers along with 50 drummers and band members.
Point of View
It is essential to approach the events surrounding the RSS centenary march in Chittapur with a balanced perspective. This decision reflects the delicate interplay of community sentiments, governance, and law enforcement. The court’s intervention emphasizes the importance of dialogue and cooperation among diverse groups, aiming for a peaceful coexistence.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the RSS foot march scheduled?
The RSS foot march is scheduled for November 16, from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m.
How many volunteers will participate in the march?
The march will feature 300 RSS volunteers along with 50 drummers and band players.
What were the reasons for the initial denial of permission?
The district authorities initially denied permission due to concerns related to law and order.
What conditions did the court impose on the RSS march?
The court has allowed the participation of 300 volunteers and 50 band members, addressing previous concerns raised by other organizations.
Who is the local representative of Chittapur?
Chittapur is represented by Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Priyank Kharge.
