Mangaluru, Oct 20 (NationPress) In response to allegations regarding the targeting of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made it clear that the government has not imposed any ban on the RSS.

The Chief Minister, while addressing the media in Puttur town of Mangaluru district, stated, "The directive concerning the requirement for permission for activities within school and college grounds does not mention the RSS specifically."

He emphasized that the order refers to "any organization or association," and is not limited to the RSS. "We are merely reiterating the order that was previously enacted by the BJP government. If they could enforce it, why can't we?" he remarked.

Siddaramaiah recalled that in 2013, during Jagadish Shettar's tenure as Chief Minister, an order was issued prohibiting organizations from conducting activities on educational campuses.

"Now, Jagadish Shettar claims that the education department was responsible for that order, not him. However, it was during his leadership that the order was sanctioned," he stated.

The Chief Minister explained that granting permission to organizations is not always guaranteed and is contingent upon the circumstances and the necessity of maintaining law and order.

Later, while inaugurating the Ashok Janamana 2025 program, he remarked that sharing a part of one’s earnings with the underprivileged is a commendable act.

"Our nation should exemplify unity in diversity. It must serve as a peaceful haven for all communities. A society plagued by internal strife or inequality should not be nurtured. Tolerance towards all religions is vital, and coexistence is crucial. If everyone adheres to these principles, we can fulfill the goals outlined in the Constitution," he asserted.

The Chief Minister pointed out that those who instigate riots do not place their own children in harm’s way; they put the children of the less fortunate and innocent at risk. "Competent officers have now been appointed. Isn't there noticeable improvement?" he questioned.

Siddaramaiah noted that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was enacted in 2017 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that over the last eight years, taxes have been misappropriated from the populace.

"Currently, the government is reducing GST and presenting it as a Diwali gift. Because of alterations in GST, Karnataka faces a deficit of Rs 15,000 crores," he said.

He underscored that fostering communal harmony is imperative for the progress of any state or district, especially in Mangaluru."Legal action will be taken against those who disrupt communal peace and spread misinformation. Ministers Priyank Kharge and H.K. Patil have already assessed legal strategies in this regard," he concluded.