Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ignited a political controversy with his sharp criticism of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and what he termed as “sanatanis”, urging citizens to stay wary of their influence.
Speaking at the silver jubilee celebrations of Mysore University, Siddaramaiah accused the RSS and its affiliates of being opposed to Dr BR Ambedkar and the Constitution he drafted, PTIreported.
“Keep your company right. Associate with those who stand for society, not with those who oppose social change or with sanatanis,” he said.
The Chief Minister referred to a recent incident in which a shoe was hurled at Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, claiming it was carried out by a “sanatani”.
“This act should be condemned not just by Dalits but by everyone. Only then can we say that society is moving on the path of change,” he added.
He also accused the BJP and RSS of distorting history. “The truth is what Ambedkar himself wrote in his own handwriting-‘Savarkar and Dange defeated me.’ Such truths must be placed before society to expose the falsehoods of the Sangh Parivar,” he said.
The remarks drew strong reactions from the BJP, which accused the Congress government of trying to “divert attention” from its failures.
Meanwhile, in a setback to the Karnataka government, the High Court allowed the RSS to hold its route march in Chittapur on 2 November. The petition, filed by Ashok Patil, challenged authorities’ delay in granting permission.
Justice MGS Kamal emphasised respecting everyone’s sentiments. Authorities had denied permission earlier, citing law and order risks, as the Bhim Army and Bharatiya Dalit Panther also planned rallies.
Patil agreed to reschedule, and the court asked for a fresh application and report by 24 October. Tensions rose after an RSS activist allegedly threatened Minister Priyank Kharge, and flag installations prompted a clearance drive.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi welcomed a Karnataka High Court directive asking the RSS to reapply for permission to hold a route march in Chittapur, after local authorities had earlier denied approval.
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka said, “We have never imposed restrictions on any organisation’s programmes, while in power. Similarly, the Congress should also behave.”
Defending the government, IT Minister Priyank Kharge said permission for the march was withheld to prevent law and order issues.
The Congress government has recently mandated prior approval for any event on public property.