Minister Priyank Kharge Warns Action Against Rural Development Staff Attending RSS Events
Karnataka Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge has stated that certain officials from his department have been found participating in Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) programs, and that action will be taken against them following an internal report. He indicated that suspension orders may be issued for those found violating service norms.
Speaking to reporters, Kharge expressed concern over the politicization of government employees. “If we assume they are here to serve the public, some are more politically active than elected representatives. They are not just attending events—they are delivering speeches and engaging in other forms of participation. Some of them belong to our department,” he said.
Kharge cited a 2013 circular issued during Jagadish Shettar’s tenure as Chief Minister, which prohibited private organizations from conducting programs in government schools. Sharing a copy of the order on social media platform X, he questioned whether the BJP considers RSS to be above the Constitution and legal frameworks of the country.
“Despite the circular being in force, RSS continues to operate in schools as if they are ancestral property of Hedgewar’s descendants. BJP leaders, who are now shouting from rooftops, should revisit their own government’s orders before speaking,” Kharge remarked.
The minister’s comments come amid heightened scrutiny of RSS-linked activities in public institutions, following recent cabinet decisions mandating prior permission for private organizations to use government spaces. The issue has sparked political debate, with Kharge positioning his remarks as a defense of constitutional governance and administrative neutrality.
