Karnataka Tensions Rise as Officials Remove RSS Flags in Priyank Kharge's Constituency Ahead of Planned March

Bengaluru:

Tensions have escalated in Chittapur, the constituency represented by Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge, following the removal of saffron flags and banners installed in preparation for a planned Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) march. Municipal officials conducted the clearance operation late Friday night, while the RSS's application for march permission remains pending with local police.

The flags and banners had been displayed throughout the town as preparations for the scheduled RSS event tomorrow. Municipal authorities justified the removal by citing lack of proper authorization for these installations, sparking immediate protests from RSS members.

RSS workers contested the removal, claiming they had paid Rs 6,000 in advertisement tax for the displays. They alleged the clearance operation was politically motivated rather than administratively necessary.

Opposition Leader R Ashoka sharply criticized the state government's actions, accusing the Congress party of treating Chittapur as if it were the "Republic of Kharge family." He directly challenged Minister Kharge, asking, "Do you think you are the Nizam of Chittapur?" Ashoka further warned that attempts to "spew venom against the RSS" might impress "fake Gandhis" but insisted such "emergency games" would not continue indefinitely.

The controversy comes after the Karnataka cabinet recently discussed policies regarding permissions for RSS and other organizations to conduct marches on public roads and government properties. Minister Kharge had previously clarified the government's position, stating, "The cabinet is of the view that certain rules and regulations need to be followed. No government premises, public road, or institution can be used for any function without prior permission. No one can march with sticks at their whim and intimidate people. This applies to everyone, including me."