RSS route march may cause law and order issues; Tahsildar denies permission; RSS approaches High Court

CHITTAPUR: The RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) has approached the Karnataka High Court after permission for its planned route march, scheduled for today as part of its centenary celebrations, was denied. Chittapur Tahsildar Nagayya Hiremath rejected the request, citing possible law and order issues.

“Permission for the RSS procession in Chittapur town is denied as there is a likelihood of law and order problems. Their application in this regard is also rejected,” the Tahsildar said in the order. The decision came after an RSS worker was arrested for allegedly threatening Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge. Intelligence reports suggested that the RSS planned the march in protest against the arrest, which led authorities to deny permission.

According to a report submitted by Chittapur Police, members of the Bharatiya Dalit Panthers Party had also sought permission to hold a protest rally on the same route. The Bhim Army had announced a protest march in the town as well. The Tahsildar noted that if the RSS, Bhim Army, and Dalit Panthers held processions on the same day, it could lead to clashes and disturb public order.

The government had recently issued a circular requiring prior approval for private organisations, groups, or associations to use public property. The denial of permission came a day after that circular was released.

On Saturday, Chittapur Town Municipal Police removed RSS cutouts and banners that had been put up along the main road. Police said these had been installed before permission for the route march was granted. The issue has intensified the ongoing dispute over government plans to impose restrictions on RSS activities in public spaces across the state.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented on the situation, saying: “In the past, the Sangh Parivar and RSS opposed Ambedkar’s Constitution, and they continue to do so today. We must remain cautious about them. Those who stand for society must stay united and not associate with those who oppose social change.”

He also condemned the recent incident in which a lawyer tried to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai. “Not just Dalits, but everyone must oppose such acts. Only then can we take comfort in knowing that society is moving toward change. I believe in the teachings of Buddha, Basava, and Ambedkar,” Siddaramaiah said.