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Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) international working president Alok Kumar warned the Karnataka government and Minister Priyank Kharge against banning the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), asserting that the organisation "does not bow down to restrictions"
The VHP leader termed the order "illegal" and questioned why that a group of people who go for a walk in the park need to take permission, while referring to the social work of the RSS. ...This order is illegal. Small groups form in public parks for various purposes. Some practice yoga in a specific part of the park, others read religious sermons. There are groups of morning walkers, groups of senior citizens. After a walk, they all gather for tea or snacks, and this is good for the country's social life. RSS shakhas are held in a similar way. So, does this mean that if four people go for a walk in a park, they will have to ask permission? If 20 people take mats and go for asanas, they need permission? If 15-20 people sit there and read the Ramayana, they will have to ask permission. And if they don't have to ask permission, then the idea of asking permission for RSS shakhas alone is out of the question," he told ANI. He also advised the Karnataka government to learn from history and cited the ban imposed by then-Prime Ministers Pandit Nehru and Indira Gandhi on the RSS. He said that the RSS emerged stronger after after ban. "I would also like to tell the Karnataka government, Priyank Kharge and the Chief Minister that they should learn from history. A ban was imposed during Nehru's and Indira's time. Narasimha Rao imposed a ban. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) doesn't bow down to restrictions... it doesn't succumb. After every ban, it stands up stronger than before. Attempts to weaken the Sangh through these measures are disastrous for those who attempt them. We should learn from history..." The VHP leader's remarks come as Priyank Kharge requested a ban on RSS activities in government schools, colleges, and state-owned temples. He said that permissions should not be granted for activities outside the syllabus in government schools and colleges. He also wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging action against officials participating in RSS programmes, citing violation of Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka State Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021. Meanwhile, a fresh political row was sparked when a Karnataka government officer was allegedly suspended over attending an RSS event. (ANI)
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