Tamil Nadu model to restrict RSS activities: CM Siddaramaiah

Bagalkot: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday said that the state government would examine the measures taken by the Tamil Nadu government to restrict Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in government-owned premises and consider implementing similar restrictions in Karnataka.

Speaking to reporters in Bagalkot, the Chief Minister said, “I have instructed the Chief Secretary to study and consider the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to restrict RSS activities in government places. Minister Priyank Kharge has written to me stating that RSS is using government premises for its programmes, and such use should be stopped, as has been done in Tamil Nadu.”

Priyank clarifies stance
Minister Priyank Kharge clarified that he had not called for a ban on the RSS but only urged that the organisation should not be allowed to use government properties for its events. “I never said RSS should be banned. I am a Hindu, not anti-Hindu, but I oppose RSS ideology,” he said.

Kharge further alleged that RSS was involved in “brainwashing” activities in schools and called it a “highly secretive organisation controlling the BJP.” He added, “Without RSS, BJP is nothing; without religion, RSS is nothing.”

Dinesh Gundu Rao backs Priyank
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao supported Kharge, describing the RSS as a “political and fascist organisation.” He said, “RSS should not be allowed to use government spaces. If they wish, they can use private premises. They are directly involved in politics along with BJP, Bajrang Dal, and ABVP.”

Rao accused RSS of spreading hatred and communal divisions. “They have not made any sacrifices for the nation,” he added.

Opposition reaction
Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka criticised the Congress government, saying, “People have not elected you to fight RSS. Fulfil your administrative responsibilities instead of wasting time criticising them.”

Home Minister G. Parameshwara said that if any proposal to restrict RSS activities comes to his department, it will be examined carefully before taking a decision.

BJP leaders hit back
BJP MP Govind Karjol said, “RSS is not a political party. It’s wrong to target it to impress Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. You should fight BJP, not RSS.”

State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra accused Congress leaders of hypocrisy, asking, “Have you ever criticised Muslim fundamentalist organisations or their terror acts? Your family survived the Razakar attacks have you ever condemned them?”

The ongoing debate marks another flashpoint in Karnataka politics, with Congress ministers targeting RSS activities and BJP leaders rallying behind the organisation’s century-old legacy.

Also Read: BJP leaders slam Priyank Kharge over RSS remarks; call statements baseless