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Karnataka minister and son of Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyank Kharge, in a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has urged to ban all activities of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in government institutions and public premises across the state.
Priyank Kharge alleged that the RSS is organizing its ‘shakhas’ in government and government-aided schools as well as on public grounds, where “slogans are raised and negative thoughts are inculcated in the minds of children and youth,” PTI reported citing his letter.
What was said in Kharge’s letter?
Priyank said that the belief system of the RSS was “contrary to the ideals of India’s unity and secular framework.”
“When divisive forces that spread hatred among the people raise their heads, our Constitution, founded on the core principles of integrity, equality and unity, empowers us to curb such elements and maintain the secular values of the nation,” the minister wrote.
He further alleged that “without police permission, aggressive demonstrations are being carried out by waving sticks,” which he claimed, “may have harmful psychological effects on children and youth.”
Calling for strong government intervention, Priyank said, “In the interest of the country’s children, youth, public and the well-being of the society as a whole, I sincerely request that all types of activities run by the RSS be banned, be it in the name of ‘Shakha’, ‘Sanghik’ or ‘Baithak’.”
He said the restrictions should be extended to “government schools, government-aided schools, public playgrounds, parks, temples under the Muzrai Department, sites under the Archeology Department and any other government premises”.
He stressed that the Constitution empowers both citizens and the state to take action against forces spreading divisiveness, thereby ensuring that secular and democratic values are protected.
Priyank Kharge’s letter comes days after police in Chennai detained 39 RSS members for organizing training and Guru Puja in a government school without prior permission.
What happened in Chennai school?
The incident took place at Ayyappanthangal Government Higher Secondary School in Porur, Chennai. On Thursday, 2 October, Chennai Police said they detained 39 RSS members for organizing puja and training in a school without prior permission.
On the same day – which was also Vijayadashami – RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat gave his ceremonial speech at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The address assumes significance this year as the organization – the ideological fountainhead of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party – completes 100 years of its establishment.
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