RSS may soon need Karnataka govt's nod for use of govt schools, public grounds

The Karnataka government is considering a bill to regulate the use of public spaces and government premises by organisations, a move that could affect RSS shakhas. It has also ordered a special commission for Adivasi and nomadic communities, signalling parallel action on regulation and welfare.Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar (File photo: PTI)The Karnataka government is considering a bill to regulate the use of government premises and public properties by private organisations and groups that are not registered under any law, government sources said on Thursday.The move is likely to have a direct impact on organisations such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which conducts shakhas and other activities at public grounds and government school premises. Under the proposed legislation, organisations would need permission from the competent authority before holding any programme or using government property, irrespective of whether they are registered under law.Sources said the Karnataka Cabinet discussed the proposed Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill, 2026 on Thursday. The legislation is aimed at putting in place a formal framework governing the use of public properties and ensuring that such spaces are not used for private or organisational activities without official approval.If the proposal is cleared, organisations seeking to conduct programmes at government schools, government-aided institutions, public grounds or other government properties would have to obtain permission from the concerned authority beforehand. The proposed move comes against the backdrop of the Karnataka government's earlier concerns over the use of public spaces by the RSS. Home Minister Priyank Kharge had last year written to then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeking a ban on RSS activities in government schools, colleges and public spaces.In his letter, Kharge had alleged that the RSS was conducting shakhas at government and government-aided schools as well as public grounds, where slogans were raised and what he described as "negative ideas" were being instilled among children and youth. He had argued that such activities "go against India's unity and the spirit of the Constitution".KARNATAKA CM ORDERS PANEL FOR ADIVASI, NOMADIC COMMUNITIESKarnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has issued an order to establish a special commission for the development and welfare of Adivasi (indigenous) and nomadic communities in the state.According to the Chief Minister's Office, the commission will work towards promoting the welfare of these communities, protecting their rights and ensuring social justice.The CMO said the demand for such a commission was raised during the recent World Tribal Day celebrations, where Shivakumar had promised to establish it within a month. "Now, by issuing the order in just two days, D K Shivakumar has fulfilled his word," it said in a statement.The government said Adivasi and nomadic communities continue to face social, educational and economic challenges and that the commission would work towards addressing these concerns and ensuring their overall development.The government's focus will include improving access to essential services and infrastructure such as quality education, nutritious food, healthcare, housing, drinking water, roads and electricity. It will also seek to create skill development and employment opportunities for young people from these communities.The CMO said the government was committed to ensuring equal opportunities and bringing greater social and economic security to Adivasi and nomadic communities in Karnataka.- EndsInputs from Nagarjun DwarakanathPublished By: Priyanka KumariPublished On: Aug 13, 2026 21:55 IST