Karnataka High Court Approves RSS Centenary March in Chittapur

The Karnataka High Court has granted permission for the centenary march of the **Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)**, scheduled to take place in **Chittapur** on **November 2, 2023**. The decision comes after a petition was filed by **Ashok Patil**, a district leader of the RSS, challenging the earlier denial of permission by local authorities.

During a session on **October 19**, the **Kalaburagi Bench** of the High Court considered the case on an emergency basis. The court instructed the event organisers to submit a fresh application and mandated the government to review the plea. The matter will be revisited on **October 24**.

Legal Proceedings and Court Findings

Justice **M.G.S. Kamal**, who led the bench, scrutinized the legal basis for the denial of permission. The petition highlighted that the RSS had followed all necessary procedures, including submitting applications to both the police and the **Executive Magistrate**. Despite this, permission was refused on the grounds of maintaining law and order, particularly as other groups, including the **Bhim Army** and **Dalit Panthers**, also sought to hold processions on the same day.

The court raised questions about the authority responsible for granting permission for marches not classified as protests. The petitioner’s counsel, **Arun Shyam**, argued that there is a lack of clear legal guidelines governing such events. The government’s response indicated that public safety concerns were paramount in their decision-making process.

Background on the March and Political Context

The **RSS** has conducted similar marches in **250 locations** across Karnataka without reported incidents, according to the court. As part of its centenary celebrations, the RSS aims to commemorate its history and contributions to the community. The court’s decision is seen as a pivotal moment for the organisation amid growing scrutiny.

Political tensions have also emerged, particularly from **Priyank Kharge**, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, who represents the Chittapur constituency. His recent calls for a ban on RSS activities have sparked significant debate.

The High Court’s ruling not only permits the RSS to proceed with its planned celebration but also emphasizes the importance of balancing public order with the right to assembly. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how similar events are handled in the future.