BENGALURU : The Karnataka High Court has allowed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to hold its route march in Chittapur on November 2.
The court was hearing a petition filed by RSS’s Kalaburagi convener Ashok Patil against the state government’s denial of permission for the march. The government had denied permission citing potential law and order issues, as other organisations like the Bhim Army and Bharatiya Dalit Panthers had also planned rallies on the same route on the same date.
The RSS had initially planned to hold the route march on October 19, but the Chittapur Tahsildar later denied permission, stating that simultaneous processions by multiple groups could lead to clashes and disturb public peace.
The RSS then approached the High Court, which directed the petitioner to submit a fresh application to the Deputy Commissioner of Kalaburagi and asked the authorities to consider it and file a report before the next hearing on October 24.
Arun Shyam, representing the RSS, had sought permission from the Executive Magistrate of Chittapur on October 17. But on October 18, he brought to the notice of the bench that this request was rejected.
The court asked if in this case, is it permissible for a group to hold a procession; It does not have to be a protest or it can be a silent protest; to create awareness among the people; if permission for this and from whom; which law and provisions will apply, among other issues. To this, Arun Shyam replied that the intention was to cancel the procession and therefore, he was refused permission.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer argued that similar processions were peacefully conducted elsewhere in the state, and the police report highlighted potential conflicts if multiple groups held simultaneous processions. The court observed that everyone’s sentiments must be respected and asked the state government to explain how it plans to accommodate the event.
Finally, the court said it would be better if the RSS were allowed to hold a procession on November 2. Moreover, so far, 250 processions have been held across the state. There has been no problem anywhere. Arun Shyam assured that peace and order will be maintained.
The government has been asked to submit a report after considering all the information. No order will be given on the merits of the petition today. The court said that the case will be considered based on the government’s report and adjourned the hearing to 3:30 pm on October 24.
The court’s decision is seen as a setback for the state government, with BJP leaders hailing it as a victory for democracy and the Constitution.
