In a major setback to the Karnataka Congress government, the Dharwad Bench of the Karnataka High Court has stayed the state’s controversial order that required private organisations to seek prior permission before conducting events in government premises—a directive widely viewed as an attempt to curb RSS-linked activities.
The interim order was passed by Justice Nagaprasanna, who issued a stay on the government directive and listed the matter for further hearing on November 17. The stay effectively puts a halt to the Congress government’s move, which had drawn widespread criticism for being politically motivated and restrictive of fundamental rights.
“Restriction on Fundamental Rights,” Argues Petitioner
The petition was filed by Punashchaitanya Seva Samsthe, which challenged the government order as unconstitutional. Appearing for the petitioner, senior advocate Ashok Haranahalli argued that the directive amounted to a violation of the fundamental rights of citizens.
“The government’s order mandated permission even for gatherings of more than ten people. This directly restricts citizens’ rights under the Constitution. Even a small social event in a public park could be deemed illegal under this rule,” Haranahalli argued before the court.
The now-stayed order, issued earlier this month, had prohibited private or social organisations from holding meetings, cultural events, or programmes in government schools, colleges, or institutional grounds without prior written approval. District officials were directed to enforce the rule under the Karnataka Land Revenue and Education Acts.
Political Fallout
The Congress government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, had claimed that the order was meant to ensure “proper use” of government property. Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil denied that the move targeted any specific organisation, saying, “This isn’t about one group or another. It’s about ensuring government property is used appropriately.”
However, the opposition BJP has called out the order as a direct attack on the RSS and Hindu organisations. Reacting to the High Court’s decision, State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra said, “This is a big setback for the Siddaramaiah government. For weeks, Congress leaders like Priyank Kharge were talking about banning the RSS. Today’s ruling is a tight slap to that thought process. Justice has prevailed.”
The court’s interim stay is being seen as a victory for freedom of association and a rebuke to political misuse of administrative power. With the next hearing scheduled for November 17, the Congress government now finds itself on the defensive—accused of targeting nationalist organisations under the guise of regulation.
