Karnataka's Congress Govt vs RSS: 'Witch Hunt' Row Explodes After Officer Suspended, HC Steps In

A political showdown is escalating in Karnataka between the Congress government and the RSS, involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister Priyank Kharge. The conflict intensified after a Panchayat Development Officer in Rayachur was suspended for attending an RSS centenary event, a move the BJP has labelled a 'witch hunt'. Backing the decision to deny permission for an RSS march in his constituency, Priyank Kharge alleged, 'The RSS has abused the sitting MLA there and have given him death threats and other things'. The controversy has revealed cracks within Congress, with former minister K.N. Rajanna questioning the restrictions by comparing them to public namaz on Eid. In a significant development, the Karnataka High Court has intervened, directing the state to reconsider fresh applications for route marches from both the RSS and the Bheem Army on November 2nd, mandating separate time slots.