Bengaluru: The High Court has now stayed the Karnataka government’s order banning Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) events. A bench headed by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, while granting an interim stay to the Karnataka government and the Hubli Police Commissioner, questioned where they gained the constitutional authority to do so. On October 18, the state government had stated that gatherings of more than 10 people without permission were a crime. Furthermore, action would be taken against gatherings of more than 10 people in parks, streets, and playgrounds.
The High Court stated that the government cannot restrict rights guaranteed under Articles 19 (1)(a) and 19 (1)(b) of the Constitution. The court stated that everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful assembly, and the government cannot interfere. The matter is pending further hearing. This court order provides interim relief to the RSS.
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya had stated that these actions against the RSS were being taken at the behest of Priyank Kharge. He said, “The RSS conducts its activities peacefully.” It also conducts peaceful processions. Meanwhile, the Karnataka cabinet approved an order banning RSS programs and shakhas. It stated that gathering at government sites without permission would be a crime and that action would be taken.
Prior to this, Priyank Kharge had written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stating that there was a need to ban RSS activities in the state. The BJP had alleged that the Congress was doing this solely out of political vendetta. The Congress then responded by stating that in 2013, the BJP government had issued a similar order, stating that school premises and playgrounds would only be used for educational programs.
