Why is the Karnataka Government Reissuing the Old Circular on School Premises?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant move, the Karnataka government has reissued an old directive prohibiting the use of school grounds for private purposes, likely targeting RSS activities. This decision raises questions about the implications for public spaces and educational institutions in the state, especially considering the ongoing discussions within the cabinet.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government reissues directive against private use of school grounds.
- The move targets potential RSS activities within educational institutions.
- Historical context: The directive dates back to February 2013.
- Government officials confirm discussions will occur in the cabinet meeting.
- High emphasis on maintaining academic integrity in schools.
Bengaluru, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Congress-led administration in Karnataka has once again issued a previously established directive from the office of the Commissioner of the Karnataka Public Instruction Department, which prohibits the utilization of government school grounds for private endeavors.
The directive, dated February 7, 2013, explicitly articulates that government school properties must not be appropriated for private activities or any purposes outside of academic ones.
This action by the Siddaramaiah government appears to be an effort to prohibit Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities within government and aided educational institutions across the state. This follows a communication from Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT, Priyank Kharge, regarding the matter.
Sources within the CMO have indicated that the reissuance of this directive is a direct response to Kharge's request for a ban on RSS functions in public areas, including schools and colleges.
The circular, endorsed by former Commissioner S.R. Umashankar, mentioned a request to permit the use of government school grounds in Chamarajpet, Bengaluru, which led to the conclusion that these facilities should exclusively serve schoolchildren for regular activities like sports, physical education, and academic pursuits.
"In this context, school grounds and premises must not be used for activities not related to academics or educational goals. It is directed that no permissions should be granted for such uses," the circular stated. It further mandated that requests for such permissions should not be sent to the Commissioner’s office.
According to insider sources, the state government plans to leverage this directive to enforce a prohibition on all RSS activities within school grounds. They also confirmed that this topic would be discussed in the cabinet meeting on Thursday (October 16).
Commenting on the situation, Home Minister G. Parameshwara remarked on Thursday in Bengaluru, "Currently, the issue of banning RSS activities is not on the agenda for the cabinet meeting. Should it arise as an additional agenda item, we will deliberate on it and reach a conclusion. Additional agenda items are commonplace."
He added, "There is an existing stipulation against permitting private or religious activities in government spaces. This is not a new development. However, it has not been rigorously enforced. Occasionally, when one or more organizations requested permission for public grounds, decisions were made to either approve one request or deny all. We will determine the decision made in the cabinet meeting when this issue is discussed."
It is worth noting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had previously instructed Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to investigate the request for prohibiting RSS activities in public spaces, focusing on government and aided school properties. The CM also directed her to review the measures implemented in Tamil Nadu regarding this matter.
Point of View
The recent actions taken by the Karnataka government to reissue the directive on school premises reflect a broader trend of ensuring educational environments remain focused on academic pursuits. While this move may resonate with certain segments of society, it is crucial to balance the interests of various community groups while upholding the integrity of educational institutions. This approach aligns with the commitment to fostering an environment conducive to learning and development.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the old circular?
The old circular prohibits the use of government school grounds for private purposes, which is significant as it aims to maintain academic integrity and prevent non-educational activities in educational institutions.
How does this impact RSS activities in Karnataka?
The reissuance of the circular appears to target RSS activities specifically, indicating the government's intent to restrict such functions within school premises.
What was the response from government officials?
Officials, including Home Minister G. Parameshwara, acknowledged the directive's relevance but noted that the issue of banning RSS activities was not on the immediate cabinet agenda.
