How was the foot march conducted peacefully in Karnataka's Chittapur?
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Synopsis
The centenary foot march of the RSS took place in Chittapur, Karnataka, amidst significant security. The event, which drew attention due to prior controversies, showcased community support as participants marched carrying national symbols. This gathering highlights the ongoing dialogue around public demonstrations in India.
Key Takeaways
- RSS Centenary: The foot march marked 100 years of the organization.
- Security Deployment: A robust security presence ensured a peaceful event.
- Court Intervention: Legal actions played a crucial role in allowing the march to occur.
- Community Support: Local residents actively engaged with the procession.
- Controversy: The event sparked discussions on public assembly rights.
Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Nov 16 (NationPress) The centenary foot march of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was successfully held by uniformed participants in the town of Chittapur, located in Karnataka's Kalaburagi district, on Sunday, under comprehensive security measures.
The Chittapur Assembly constituency is represented by Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, IT and Biotechnology, Priyank Kharge, who is the son of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
This foot march, which was sanctioned following a court's intervention, proceeded peacefully along the main roads of Chittapur.
As the RSS volunteers paraded while carrying a portrait of Bharat Mata, local women, children, and men gathered on both sides of the street, showering petals and cheering for the procession.
The event commenced at 3:45 p.m., concluded at 4:22 p.m., and spanned approximately 1.25 km.
The march started from Bajaj Kalyan Mantap, traversed through Ambedkar Circle, Basava Hospital, HDFC Bank Road, and Basaveshwara Circle, before returning to the starting point.
According to court directives, a total of 300 volunteers and 50 drummers were permitted to take part.
The police allowed only local RSS volunteers from Chittapur to participate, prohibiting those arriving from other regions in the state.
Prior to the march, the volunteers sang the RSS anthem 'Namaste Sada Vatsale Matru Bhume'.
The event had previously stirred national controversy when district authorities denied permission for the march.
Following the intervention of the Karnataka High Court, the Congress-led state government granted approval for the event.
The police conducted a route march throughout the town, deploying one platoon each from the Karnataka State Reserve Police and the District Armed Reserve near Bajaj Kalyan Mantap.
In total, around 650 police personnel and 250 home guards were enlisted to ensure security and maintain order in Chittapur.
The Kalaburagi Superintendent of Police (SP) Adduru Srinivasulu, along with the Additional SP and Deputy SP, closely supervised the proceedings.
CCTV cameras and drones were employed for stringent surveillance.
On November 7, the Congress-led state government informed the High Court bench led by Justice M.G.S. Kamal that it would consider the RSS's request to conduct a foot march in Chittapur.
Minister Priyank Kharge had previously sparked controversy by writing to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, requesting a ban on RSS activities in public spaces and government property.
Following this, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah issued an order requiring prior authorization for events at public venues and government-owned land.
However, the High Court later suspended this order.
Challenging the government's directive, the Punaschetana Seva Samsthe and others approached the High Court.
Meanwhile, several Dalit and progressive organizations opposed the planned RSS Path Sanchalan, demanding that volunteers refrain from carrying lathis (sticks) or the 'Bhagwa Dhwaj' (saffron flag).
Instead, they urged participants to carry the Preamble to the Constitution and the national flag.
This development raised concerns within the region.
Point of View
The recent RSS foot march in Chittapur serves as a noteworthy case study. While it highlights the importance of community participation and resilience, it also underscores the ongoing tensions between political narratives and civil liberties in today's India. As a national editor, it's vital to recognize both the historical significance and contemporary implications of such gatherings.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the RSS foot march?
The foot march was conducted to celebrate the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and foster community engagement.
What security measures were implemented during the event?
Approximately 650 police personnel and 250 home guards were deployed, along with CCTV cameras and drones for surveillance.
Who intervened to allow the march to take place?
The Karnataka High Court intervened after the local authorities initially denied permission for the foot march.
Was there any controversy surrounding the event?
Yes, there were controversies regarding permissions and demands from various organizations regarding the conduct of the march.
What did participants carry during the march?
Participants carried a portrait of Bharat Mata and were encouraged to display the Preamble to the Constitution and the national flag.
