Should We Support Priyank Kharge Against RSS Threats?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Support for Priyank Kharge from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah indicates a political stance against RSS activities.
- The government is imposing stricter security measures in response to threats.
- The situation highlights the need for maintaining communal harmony in Karnataka.
- Congress leaders are advocating for a unified response to ensure party safety.
- Investigation into threats is underway to uphold democratic principles.
Mysuru, Oct 15 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared on Wednesday his unwavering support for Minister Priyank Kharge’s call to prohibit the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasizing that they will not succumb to intimidation.
“I am not intimidated by threats, nor is Kharge, who has been receiving threatening calls. Activities of the RSS should not take place on government premises. Following the precedent set in Tamil Nadu, we should also impose a ban on the RSS here in Karnataka, as Kharge has already mentioned,” the Chief Minister stated to the press.
On the topic of the threatening calls directed at Priyank Kharge and the subsequent release of an audio clip related to it, Siddaramaiah noted that directives have been issued to investigate how the RSS ban was enacted in Tamil Nadu.
“The Chief Secretary has been tasked with compiling a report, which will be reviewed. Kharge will be provided with security. Those with malicious intent will always resort to such tactics. Priyank will not be deterred by these threats, and neither will I,” the Chief Minister affirmed.
In the meantime, senior Congress leader and MLC B.K. Hariprasad expressed that the recent developments have raised concerns not just for Minister Priyank Kharge but for everyone advocating for peace and harmony in the nation.
Hariprasad urged Karnataka Congress chief D.K. Shivakumar to convene a general body meeting to take a clear position on the matter.
“Priyank Kharge should stand firm against these threats. The government must guarantee his safety. The meeting should thoroughly discuss the situation and reach a resolution. We cannot allow Karnataka to devolve into another state plagued by communal unrest and violence. The party and government must act decisively on this issue,” he stated.
He reiterated that Karnataka is renowned for its peaceful coexistence, expressing concern that the BJP and RSS are attempting to disrupt this tranquility.
In response to the controversy surrounding Kharge’s letter proposing a ban on RSS activities in public areas, the state government has heightened security around his residence in Bengaluru.
A platoon from the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) is now stationed at his home due to concerns about potential protests and ongoing threats.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara responded to the threats against Minister Priyank Kharge, affirming that the government is treating the situation with utmost seriousness and has initiated an investigation.
On Wednesday, Kharge also shared a video featuring an audio clip that contained abusive and threatening remarks made over the phone.