Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], November 13 : Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Thursday said that the state government's approval for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) march came following directions from the High Court, emphasising that it was a "one-time permission" with strict conditions attached.
Speaking to reporters, Kharge stated that the RSS had not originally sought formal permission from the state government but had merely informed authorities about their planned event.
"The government has given permission to the RSS in the High Court. The RSS had not sought any permission from the government. They had informed the government that they were doing a march... It has taken them one month to get the government's permission," Kharge said.
The minister added that the court's directive was followed precisely, but with clear restrictions to maintain law and order during the march.
"Very specific instructions have been given to the RSS that no more than 300 members, no more than 55 band members, and no one from outside Sitapur will be allowed. Most importantly, they can't do as they deem fit. It is a one-time permission," Kharge added.
Earlier today, the Karnataka High Court disposed of a petition filed by the RSS Kalaburagi Convenor, who had sought permission to hold a Pathasanchalana (march) in Chittapur town.
The district administration had earlier allowed only 300 participants, while the RSS had requested permission for 850 members. Advocate Arun Shyam, representing the RSS, challenged this limit in court and asked that at least 600 participants be allowed.
After hearing both sides, Justice MGS Kamal ruled that the RSS could hold its procession with 300 uniformed participants and 50 band members and directed the authorities to ensure the event went smoothly.
This decision follows an earlier court order on October 30, when the High Court had asked RSS convenor Ashok Patil to meet district officials on November 5 at the Advocate General's office to finalise the event's details. The district administration later granted permission with certain restrictions, which led the RSS to approach the court again, seeking more flexibility.
The issue began when local authorities in Chittapur, the home constituency of Minister Priyank Kharge, denied permission for the RSS march on October 19, citing possible threats to peace and law and order.
Earlier, Priyank Kharge demanded a ban on RSS activities in government schools, colleges, and state-owned temples. He said that permissions should not be granted for activities outside the syllabus in government schools and colleges.