Karnataka HC Puts Brakes on Siddaramaiah Govt Order Against Private Organisations

By Oneindia Staff

Updated: Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 14:03 [IST]

The Karnataka High Court has put a hold on a government order that allegedly restricted Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in the state. This decision comes as a setback for the Siddaramaiah-led government. The court's Dharwad Bench stayed the order, which required private organisations to seek permission before using government premises for events. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on November 17.

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The Karnataka High Court has stayed a government order restricting Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities and requiring permission for private events on government premises, which the Siddaramaiah-led government reissued on October 18, 2025. Minister Priyank Kharge urged action against officials involved in RSS programs, citing Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021, leading to an employee's suspension.

Government Order and Its Implications

On October 18, 2025, the Karnataka government reissued an order from 2013. This directive prohibited the use of government school grounds for private purposes. It was intended to ensure "the preservation, protection and proper utilisation of government properties and premises, playgrounds, and public assets." Despite denials from the chief minister, this move was perceived as an attempt to curb RSS activities.

Minister's Concerns and Actions

Priyank Kharge, Karnataka's minister for information technology and biotechnology, played a key role in this development. He wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urging action against officials involved in RSS programs. His letter followed an incident where a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) in Raichur district allegedly participated in an RSS event.

Kharge cited Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021. This rule prohibits government servants from associating with political parties or engaging in political activities. In his letter, Kharge stated: "As per Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021 for Government servants in the State of Karnataka, the following rule is already in force. No Government servant shall be a member of, or otherwise associated with, any political party or any organisation engaged in politics, or shall take part in any political movement or activity, shall not be solicited for its support or shall render any assistance thereto."

Consequences for Government Employees

Following Kharge's letter, a government employee was suspended from duty due to participation in an RSS event. This action highlights the government's stance on enforcing rules regarding political neutrality among its employees.