Karnataka Minister Defends Letter to RSS Chief Over Security Concerns
Bengaluru: Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has defended his letter to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, stating that he sought to know who is being provided security during RSS marches in the state. Kharge's remarks come amid a political debate over the letter, which the opposition has criticized as an attempt to interfere in the functioning of a constitutional body.
In his letter to Bhagwat, Kharge had asked for details about security arrangements for RSS programmes, citing instances of marches and processions in Karnataka. He said the move was aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of state resources. 'I want to know who I am giving security to. It is my responsibility as a minister,' Kharge told reporters.
The minister, who holds the portfolio of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, clarified that his letter was not intended to target any particular organisation but was a routine administrative query. He pointed out that the state government had received complaints about RSS marches and that it was necessary to verify the details to avoid any misuse of security personnel.
The controversy erupted after the letter was made public, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing Kharge of acting on political vendetta. State BJP chief Nalin Kumar Kateel alleged that the Congress government was trying to intimidate the RSS. However, Kharge dismissed these allegations, stating that his letter was based on factual reports and had no political motive.
RSS marches in Karnataka have been a subject of debate, with some local groups raising concerns about their impact on law and order. The state government has maintained that it treats all organisations equally and provides security based on threat assessments. The issue has now escalated to a political slugfest between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP.
Kharge's letter has also drawn reactions from legal experts, who say that it is within the rights of a minister to seek information about security deployments. 'There is no constitutional violation in asking for details. It is a matter of administrative accountability,' said constitutional expert Prof. Ravindranath.
The RSS has not officially responded to the letter. However, sources within the organisation indicated that they view the move as unnecessary and politically motivated. The development comes ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka, adding a fresh layer of tension between the Congress and the BJP.
