Frontline Exclusive | I’m asking the RSS to follow the law of the land: Priyank Kharge

In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, discusses his call to regulate RSS and other organisations’ activities in government schools, colleges, and public spaces. On October 4, Kharge wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging restrictions on RSS activities in government institutions and public areas. The letter ignited political controversy, with the BJP accusing him of targeting the organisation for political purposes. His appeal came just two days after the RSS celebrated its centenary with processions across the State. Kharge’s key demand: any organisation using government or public spaces must obtain prior permission from the authorities. In the interview, he elaborates on his position, questions the RSS’s funding sources and regulatory exemptions, and responds to criticisms of his stance. Highlights: Why Priyank Kharge called for regulating RSS activities The legal and constitutional issues around public space use RSS’s centenary and questions over its funding and registration Historical Congress-RSS tensions and their present implications Kharge’s views on radicalisation, caste, and economic empowerment The wider debate on equality, democracy, and ideological accountability Students of Indian politics, governance, and constitutional law Journalists and policy researchers studying the RSS and state institutions Political science and sociology students exploring ideology and power Those interested in Karnataka politics, Congress strategy, and secular governance Perfect for: Credits: Host: Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed Camera: K. Murali Kumar Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Originally published on October 18, 2025. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295