BJP opposes proposed Karnataka Public Places Regulation Bill, alleges RSS targeting
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The proposed ‘Karnataka State Public Places and Access Regulation Bill, 2026’, which is expected to be introduced in the Karnataka Assembly to regulate and curtail the use of public spaces, has drawn censure from the BJP, which has alleged that the legislation is aimed at restraining the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
The Bill seeks to regulate programmes, processions, meetings and other activities organised by various organisations and institutions in public places, mandating them to obtain prior permission from the authorities before conducting programmes in public areas.
In view of previous instances of restrictions being imposed on RSS programmes and route marches, the Bill is likely to come under political scrutiny, with the government expected to defend the legislation on the grounds of maintaining public order, preventing traffic disruption, and safeguarding public convenience.
An earlier controversy erupted in Chittapur after authorities denied permission for an RSS route march; however, it was allowed later under certain conditions by the Karnataka High Court.
The state government had also issued an order in 2025 requiring prior permission for programmes and processions held on public property, and the proposed Bill could now provide a statutory framework for regulating such activities.
BJP MLA Araga Jnanendra alleged that the legislation was being introduced with prejudice against the RSS and warned that his party would oppose any attempt to obstruct its activities.
“Once it is introduced, we will examine its provisions. But if it is intended to obstruct the organisation’s activities, we will certainly oppose it,” he said.
Jnanendra defended RSS shakhas conducted in public and government spaces, describing the organisation as contributing to the creation of disciplined and patriotic citizens.