Minister seeks disciplinary action against officials in Karnataka having links with RSS

Raising the bar regarding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s IT/BT and RDPR Minister, has written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking an official circular warning of disciplinary action if government officials associate themselves with any Sangh-related activities.

Mr. Kharge, son of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a letter dated October 13, appealed to the Prime Minister to direct the authorities concerned to issue an official circular strictly prohibiting government officials from being associated with any activities of the RSS.

The Minister, who is a prominent Dalit face in the Siddaramaiah Cabinet, pointed out that the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021 prohibit government officials from belonging to or having any connection with any political party or organization involved in politics. It stated that government officials are prohibited from participating in, financing, or providing any assistance to any political campaign.

He alleged that despite such clear instructions, it has recently been noticed that some government officials and personnel are participating in programs and activities run by RSS and other organisations.

Earlier, Mr. Priyank Kharge had written a letter to the Prime Minister seeking a ban on RSS activities on government premises, including schools, and accused the right-wing organization of trying to fill the minds of gullible youths with ideas contrary to the spirit of the Constitution and the integrity of the nation. He had also alleged that the Sangh’s ‘aggressive’ action of using laths (sticks) in public places without permission from the police had adversely affected innocent young minds.

Responding to his letter, the Prime Minister had asked the Chief Secretary to look into the matter.

The minister’s demand to ban RSS activities in government buildings had led to criticism from the opposition BJP and right-wing groups who argued that it was not possible to ban the RSS.

The Minister later claimed that he had received threats and abusive calls to impose such a ban.