Should Priyank Kharge Apologize for His Comments on Banning RSS?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- B. S. Yediyurappa demands an apology from Priyank Kharge.
- Kharge threatens to ban the RSS if Congress returns to power.
- The RSS has significantly influenced Indian politics.
- Political rhetoric is heating up in Karnataka.
- The exchange could impact the upcoming elections.
Bengaluru, July 5 (NationPress) B. S. Yediyurappa, a member of the BJP Central Parliamentary Board and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, has criticized state Minister Priyank Kharge for his comments regarding the potential ban on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He labeled the statement as “absurd” and called for an apology to the citizens of the country.
While addressing the media on Saturday at the BJP State Headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, Yediyurappa remarked, “Priyank Kharge has claimed that should Congress regain power at the Centre, they would outlaw the RSS.”
He further stated that leaders across India, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have been shaped by the RSS’ teachings and ideology.
“First and foremost, your belief that you will come to power at the Centre is pure fantasy. In the upcoming elections, it is certain that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will once again secure a clear majority. I urge you not to belittle yourself before the public by making such ridiculous assertions,” Yediyurappa emphasized.
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has ignited controversy by asserting that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) would be prohibited if the Congress party returns to power at the Centre.
When speaking to journalists in Kalaburagi, Minister Kharge stated on Friday, “I have previously stated — we banned the RSS in the past, and if given the chance in the future, we will do it again. They are anti-national.”
Referencing B. R. Ambedkar, he mentioned, “Ambedkar defined who is anti-national. In his final address, he emphasized that now that we have gained independence, our focus must be on facilitating social and economic advancement. However, caste is anti-national in India. Anyone who obstructs societal and economic progress in the name of caste and religion, thereby sowing discord among communities, is anti-national.”
“In today’s context, who is fostering communal discord? Who is advocating for ‘one nation, one religion’? Who claims to oppose the Constitution? Who asserts that if granted 400 seats, they will amend the Constitution? It is the RSS and the BJP,” Priyank Kharge said.
He added, “I’ve made it clear: if I gain power, any organization or group that works against the nation, disrupts communal harmony, incites caste animosity, or instigates communal violence — we will put an end to them. This is for the benefit of the country.”