Did Karnataka HC Approve RSS March in Chittapur on November 2?
Synopsis
The Karnataka High Court has granted the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh permission for a centenary march in Chittapur on November 2. This decision comes after a denied application and raises important questions about legal authority and public safety as multiple groups seek to hold processions in the area.
Key Takeaways
Karnataka High Court grants permission for RSS march.
March to celebrate 100 years of RSS.
Initial permission was denied due to law and order concerns.
Need for clarity on legal requirements for such events.
Different timings for processions requested by the court.
Kalaburagi, Oct 19 (NationPress) The Karnataka High Court has approved the centenary march of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Chittapur town, scheduled for November 2. The court requested the event organizers to submit a new application and directed the government to review the request, deferring further discussion until October 24.
The Kalaburagi Bench of the High Court issued this ruling while addressing the petition on an urgent basis.
Ashok Patil, a leader from the Kalaburagi District RSS, filed the petition after the government denied permission for the march despite the submission of the necessary application and completion of all required procedures.
Justice M.G.S. Kamal, leading the bench, inquired about which authority holds the legal power to approve such a march.
Senior counsel Arun Shyam, representing the petitioner, explained that the application was initially presented to the police on Monday and then to the Executive Magistrate on Friday, only to be denied on October 19.
The bench also raised questions about the necessity of obtaining permission for a march that isn't classified as a protest, seeking clarity on the relevant legal requirements. Counsel for the petitioner asserted that there is no definitive law addressing this issue.
On behalf of the government, counsel indicated that the denial was based on concerns for law and order, especially since other groups such as the Bhim Army and Dalit Panthers had also requested permission for their processions.
The High Court instructed the government to schedule different times for various organizations' processions. The court also noted that the RSS has successfully conducted marches at 250 locations across the state without any reported incidents.
The RSS has challenged the Chittapur Tahsildar's order denying permission for its centenary procession, which was originally planned for October 19.
Minister Priyank Kharge, representing the Chittapur constituency, recently called for a ban on RSS activities, igniting controversy.
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize that while the court has allowed the RSS to proceed with its march, the decision must be viewed through the lens of maintaining public order and safety. The involvement of various organizations seeking permits highlights the delicate balance that authorities must maintain. Our commitment is to uphold the principles of democracy while ensuring the rights of all groups are respected.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the RSS march?
The RSS march is a centenary celebration, commemorating 100 years of its establishment.
When is the RSS march scheduled?
The RSS march is scheduled for November 2.
Who denied the initial permission for the march?
The initial permission was denied by local government authorities.
What did the High Court say about the permission?
The High Court instructed the government to consider the application and granted permission for the march.
What concerns were raised regarding the march?
Concerns were raised about law and order, especially with other organizations also seeking permissions for events.
