Bengaluru, Oct 15 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has announced an investigation into the threats directed at Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge. In response, security measures at his residence in Bengaluru have been significantly enhanced.

This development follows a heated debate surrounding the Minister's letter advocating for a ban on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in public spaces across the state.

A platoon from the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) has been deployed at his home due to concerns about potential protests and threatening phone calls.

Karnataka’s Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized that the government is treating this situation with utmost seriousness, initiating a thorough investigation into the source of these threats. He stated, “We will trace the origin of these calls and identify those responsible. It is unacceptable to threaten a minister for voicing his opinion. Though it is challenging to track the callers due to technology, we are committed to solving this case.”

In a media interaction in Bengaluru, Minister Priyank Kharge remarked, “My fight is not against specific individuals; I am seeking legal clarity. I am requesting documents to verify that RSS operates as a registered NGO. This controversy has erupted merely over this request.”

He further expressed his concern, stating, “If BJP leaders face personal attacks on social media, will their supporters remain quiet? Even respected figures such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar faced backlash; I am a small figure, and they will not hesitate to target me. The abusive clip I shared is just a glimpse; the language used by callers has been so demeaning that sharing the full content would be disrespectful to my family.”

“As the Minister for IT and BT, I possess an understanding of technology. Simply imprisoning a few callers is insufficient; those who propagate such toxic ideologies must face consequences,” he added.

Kharge also mentioned that he has the backing of prominent leaders like Rahul Gandhi, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who have spoken out against the RSS in various platforms.

He criticized the BJP and RSS, stating, “They are always on the offensive, yet they did not hold a press conference following the incident of a shoe being thrown at the Chief Justice of India. Has the RSS condemned that event?”

The debate over the proposed ban on RSS activities in Karnataka intensified when Minister Priyank Kharge released an audio clip with abusive content. “If they believe threats and abuse will intimidate me, they are mistaken,” he asserted. Minister Kharge unveiled a 2.12-minute video capturing his conversation with an unidentified caller.

In response to Kharge's allegations of receiving threat calls regarding his proposal to prohibit RSS activities in public areas, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra suggested that Kharge is merely seeking publicity.

Speaking to journalists in Chitradurga, Vijayendra remarked, “It is absurd to claim that the RSS could be banned today. I respectfully ask Minister Priyank Kharge — what accomplishments have you achieved in your role in the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) sector? What reforms can you present to the public?”