Bengaluru: In a politically charged move, the Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government has tightened restrictions on organizational activities by invoking a 2013 order originally issued by the BJP.
The new directive mandates prior government approval for private institutions or organizations seeking to hold events in public or government-controlled spaces.
The decision, taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has drawn attention for its indirect impact on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) programs. Though the government’s notification does not explicitly name the RSS, sources indicate that curbing its events was a key intent behind the measure.
Under the new rule, no private body will be allowed to organize any event on government property without formal permission.
Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa defended the move, particularly a related order barring the use of school grounds for non-academic activities. He said the government acted after receiving complaints from parents and students about ideological influences. “We had to take this step keeping children’s welfare in mind. Activities that do not benefit students will not be permitted in our schools,” he stated.
Earlier, Minister Priyank Kharge had written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that certain government officials attended RSS programs and made statements against the Congress government. He called for strict enforcement of the Karnataka Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which require civil servants to remain politically neutral. “These are not my personal directions but part of the Civil Service Rules, which prohibit officials from engaging with politically affiliated organizations,” Kharge clarified.
Kharge further revealed that several Panchayat Development Officers, village accountants, and other government functionaries have been identified for participating in RSS events. “Show-cause notices have already been issued to those who attended the RSS centenary celebrations. They will be suspended within the next few days,” he added.
The development signals an assertive stance by the Congress government to reinforce political neutrality within the bureaucracy while limiting the use of state premises for ideological or political activities — a move that could reshape civic engagement in Karnataka’s public institutions.