What Are the New Regulations for Private Organisations in Karnataka Regarding Government Properties?
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Synopsis
On October 18, the Karnataka government announced new regulations requiring private organisations to obtain permission to use government properties for events. This decision follows a request to restrict RSS activities in public spaces, highlighting the government's emphasis on maintaining order and safety in public facilities.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka mandates permissions for private organisations using government properties.
- Regulations introduced in response to concerns about public safety.
- Applications must be submitted three days prior to events.
- Competent authorities include police commissioners and deputy commissioners.
- Violations may lead to legal actions.
Bengaluru, Oct 18 (NationPress) In a significant move, the Karnataka government has mandated that private organisations must secure governmental approval to conduct events. Consequently, new regulations concerning the utilization of government properties and facilities by private entities, associations, or groups have been issued.
The government’s decision is a response to a directive from Minister for RDPR, IT and BT, Priyank Kharge, advocating for a ban on the activities of the Rastriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS) in public areas. This order was formalized on Saturday by S. Nagaraju, Under Secretary to the Government, Home Department (Law and Order).
The order specifies, "Should any individual or group, including organisations or associations, conduct a program or procession on government property in violation of this Government Order, such actions will be deemed unlawful, and the assembly will be treated as an unlawful assembly in accordance with the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhithe (BNS)."
Furthermore, it states, "Jurisdictional police officers are tasked with preventing any cognizable offence as outlined in the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Samhita (BNSS) 2023. In case of any offenses, the police will register cases either based on reports from others or on their own initiative, invoking relevant penal sections of the BNS 2023."
The Karnataka government has declared that any private organisation, association, or group must obtain prior permission from the appropriate competent authority to use government properties or premises.
"Government property encompasses any land, building, structure, roadway, park, playground, waterbody, or any other immovable asset owned and managed by local authorities or departments under the auspices of the Government of Karnataka."
According to the order, the "competent authority" refers to the jurisdictional Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of the District, or any other officers designated by the government. An "organisation" is defined as any private association, society, trust, club, or any other entity, whether registered or not, excluding local authorities or government departments.
The term "Procession or Rally" is defined as a gathering of more than 10 individuals, accompanied by music or otherwise, engaged in activities with a shared objective, except for marriage and funeral gatherings.
The order dictates that applicants must submit their requests in writing to the competent authority at least three days prior to their intended program or event, following a format specified by the government.
Competent authorities are empowered under the Karnataka Police Act 1963 to regulate the usage of government properties and maintain order within those premises.
After obtaining the necessary licence or permission, applicants may proceed with their approved programs or processions.
The preamble of the order emphasizes its goal to safeguard, preserve, and optimally utilize government properties and facilities, including playgrounds, parks, roads, and other public assets. Regulating usage with prior approval of the competent authority is deemed crucial for effective maintenance.
In this context, the jurisdictional Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police are entrusted as competent authorities to evaluate applications, grant permissions, oversee permitted activities, and initiate legal actions against unauthorized use, illegal occupation, or encroachment of government properties to ensure public safety and the preservation of these assets.
Point of View
I can affirm that the Karnataka government's decision reflects a growing trend towards regulating public spaces for safety and order. While the necessity for permissions may seem burdensome, it aims to preserve the integrity of public assets and ensure community safety, a priority that resonates with citizens nationwide.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new regulations?
The new regulations aim to ensure that private organisations obtain necessary permissions before using government properties, thereby preserving public assets and maintaining order.
Who is considered a competent authority?
The competent authority includes the jurisdictional Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of the District, or other government-authorized officers.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Non-compliance may result in actions being classified as unlawful assemblies, and jurisdictional police are authorized to take legal action against violators.
How far in advance must permission be requested?
Applications for permission must be submitted in writing to the competent authority at least three days prior to the intended event.
What types of gatherings are exempt from these regulations?
Marriage and funeral gatherings are exempt from these regulations.
