Karnataka: BJP sees public property bill as Congress effort to stifle RSS

Karnataka is set to introduce legislation regulating the use of government premises and public property by private organisations, a move the Opposition BJP has described as an attempt to target the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Home Minister Priyank Kharge said the proposed Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill, 2026, would create a legal framework for using government land, buildings, playgrounds, parks, roads and other public assets.

Kharge, on Friday, rejected allegations that the bill targeted the RSS, saying it does not name any organisation, political party or NGO. He said the government was acting in line with Supreme Court and High Court directions on regulating public spaces.


“If you take permission, and I take permission, anybody else also has to take permission,” Kharge said, urging the Opposition to debate the bill in the Assembly and point out any shortcomings.

Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya said the proposed legislation was “clearly an attempt to target the RSS” and argued that the Constitution protects the right to form associations and organisations. He said he and other advocates will challenge the legislation in court if it becomes law.

The proposed bill seeks to give statutory backing to a government notification following a Cabinet decision last October requiring prior permission for events and activities at public places.

The decision followed a letter by Kharge to then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking restrictions on RSS activities, including shakhas and baithaks, at government and aided schools, public parks, playgrounds, government-controlled temples and archaeological sites. Kharge had alleged that such activities promoted hatred and raised concerns over RSS cadres carrying sticks at public places without police permission.