PDO suspended: Amid an ongoing statewide debate over the Karnataka government’s move to restrict Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in government premises and take action against government employees participating in such events, a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) has been suspended for joining an RSS route march in uniform.
Praveen Kumar, the PDO of Rodalabanda village in Lingasugur taluk, was suspended by Dr. Arundhathi, Commissioner of the Panchayat Raj Department, pending a departmental inquiry.
The suspension order cites violation of the Karnataka Civil Services Conduct Rules and conduct unbecoming of a government employee. The officer was seen wearing the RSS uniform and carrying a stick while participating in the Path Sanchalan held in Lingasugur town on October 12 as part of the RSS centenary celebrations.
The government’s action has added to the growing political storm over alleged attempts to curb RSS activities in Karnataka, with the opposition accusing the Congress of targeting the Sangh for political gains.
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