Why Did RSS Approach HC After Karnataka Govt Denied Centenary March?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- RSS challenges government decision in High Court.
- Concerns over law and order lead to denial of permission.
- Political ramifications as multiple groups plan events.
- The situation highlights the tension between rights and regulations.
- Awaiting the court's verdict will be crucial for future events.
Bengaluru, Oct 19 (NationPress) The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has filed a petition with the Kalaburagi Bench of the High Court challenging the decision made by the Chittapur Tahsildar, which refused permission for its centenary procession scheduled to take place in Chittapur town this Sunday.
Prior to this, the local authorities had removed saffron flags, Bhagwa Dhwaj, banners, and buntings from the area.
The situation has attracted significant attention, and many are now awaiting the court's ruling. Leaders from the BJP are hopeful that the court will allow the procession to proceed. It is noteworthy that the Chittapur constituency is represented by Minister Priyank Kharge for RDPR, IT, and BT. Following his correspondence, the government issued a directive requiring private organizations to seek prior approval from the authorities for events held in public spaces.
The Tahsildar denied the RSS's request, citing potential risks to law and order. In response, the RSS has challenged this ruling in court, asserting that their right to hold the procession should not be infringed upon.
Tahsildar Nagayya Hiremath indicated that a report was requested from the Police Sub-Inspector at the Chittapur police station.
The police report revealed that the Bhim Army had also requested permission for a procession along the same route. Moreover, intelligence reports suggested that the RSS march was being organized as a reaction to the arrest of an RSS worker who allegedly threatened Minister Kharge.
In addition, workers from the Bharatiya Dalit Panthers submitted a letter asking for a protest rally on the same route. Meanwhile, members of the Bhim Army have announced a press conference, revealing plans for a protest march on October 20.
It was noted that if the RSS, Bhim Army, and Bharatiya Dalit Panthers all held processions on the same day, it could lead to significant law and order issues, including potential clashes between the groups. Hence, permission for these processions was denied.
The Tahsildar stated, "The permission for the RSS foot march is denied due to the potential for disturbances to law and order in Chittapur town. Consequently, the request for the RSS's foot march is rejected, along with its petition regarding this matter."
After the decision mandating private organizations to request permission for events, the Congress-led government has implemented regulations concerning the use of government properties by private entities.
This decision follows a letter from Minister Priyank Kharge, which called for restrictions on RSS activities in public areas. The order was issued on Saturday by S. Nagaraju, Under Secretary to the Government, Home Department (Law and Order).
The order states, "Any individual, organization, or group that conducts events or processions in government properties against this Government Order will be deemed unlawful and treated as an unlawful assembly per the provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Samhithe (BNS)."
The Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, has expressed his discontent over the denial of permission for the RSS march and the removal of banners, despite having paid nearly Rs 6,000 for their installation. He characterized the action as arbitrary and misconduct on the part of Minister Kharge.
Regarding the suspension of a PDO in relation to the RSS march, he asserted, "RSS is not a political party; it is an organization similar to any other public association. All individuals are welcome to participate. There is also a directive from the central government."