RSS Ban Controversy in Karnataka: Priyank Kharge’s Remarks Spark Political Uproar

The political landscape of Karnataka has been jolted by Minister Priyank Kharge’s call for a ban on RSS activities in government and educational institutions. In a formal letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kharge urged immediate restrictions on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) involvement in public sector spaces, arguing that political ideologies should not interfere with administrative or academic neutrality.

Kharge’s remarks, which questioned the BJP’s commitment to the RSS ideology, have ignited intense political debate. “If this ideology is so good, why are BJP leaders’ children not attending RSS shakhas?” he asked, directly challenging the ruling party at the national level. His statement was soon followed by claims of threatening and abusive calls, which he alleged were made by individuals opposing his stance.

The BJP, in response, dismissed Kharge’s allegations as a publicity stunt, accusing him of attempting to divert attention from governance issues. The party organized protests across Kalaburagi, Mandya, and other Karnataka cities, demanding an apology and labeling his statements as an attack on Hindu cultural institutions.

Meanwhile, sources from the Siddaramaiah government revealed that officials are examining the restrictions imposed on RSS events in Tamil Nadu to assess the feasibility of similar measures in Karnataka. This development has only intensified the ideological divide between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP.

Priyank Kharge, however, remains steadfast in his position. He emphasized that his stand is guided by the values of Buddha, Basava, and Babasaheb Ambedkar, who advocated rational thought, equality, and secularism. “I am not against any religion,” Kharge said, “but I firmly oppose mixing religion with governance.”

Political analysts suggest that this controversy may have wider implications for Karnataka’s governance and the Congress party’s image ahead of upcoming elections. The debate over RSS’s role in public institutions continues to polarize opinions, reflecting a broader ideological clash between secular and nationalist narratives.

As the controversy deepens, both parties are using the issue to consolidate their respective vote bases — with Congress projecting itself as a defender of secular democracy and the BJP portraying itself as a protector of India’s cultural heritage.