The controversy surrounding the Karnataka Government’s opposition to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh activities taking place on its premises intensified after a panchayat development officer (PDO) was suspended for participating in an RSS programme, triggering sharp reactions from the Opposition BJP.
Praveen Kumar K P, a PDO serving in Sirwar taluk of Raichur district, was suspended by the rural development and panchayat raj department on Friday for attending an RSS rally in Lingasugur on October 12.
Kumar, who also works as an assistant to BJP MLA Manappa Vajjal from Lingasugur, was photographed wearing the RSS uniform at the event. After his photo went viral, departmental authorities initiated an inquiry and suspended him for violating Rule 3 of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 2021, which mandates political neutrality and discipline among government officials.
The suspension has drawn strong opposition from BJP leaders. Tejasvi Surya, MP and Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha national president, spoke to the suspended officer and assured legal support.
“I will personally appear before the concerned tribunal and courts to challenge this illegal and unlawful suspension. Multiple judgments from high courts have upheld government servants’ right to participate in RSS programmes. This unlawful suspension will be quashed,” Surya said, adding that the BJP was ready for a legal battle if necessary.
In a related development, buntings and posters for an RSS route march scheduled for Sunday around 3 pm were removed at Chittapur in Kalaburagi district—the constituency of Rural Development Minister and Information Technology/Biotechnology Priyank Kharge. He has written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah requesting a ban on RSS activities on government premises, triggering the controversy.
Around 500-600 members wearing uniforms had reached Chittapur by Sunday afternoon.
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BJP state president B Y Vijayendra demanded immediate revocation of Kumar’s suspension, warning of strong action otherwise. He claimed that the RSS had obtained prior permission for its “pathasanchalan” on Sunday and had legally put up promotional materials.
“Authorities removed them, claiming no permission was taken, which is false. Freedom of speech and expression of government officials is being curbed under feudal politics in Chittapur,” Vijayendra alleged.