RSS members taking part in the route march
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), known for its commitment to democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution, is gearing up for a legal battle against the government led by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu. The organisation, in a statement by Aadalarasan, the State President of RSS in Dakshin Tamil Nadu, highlights its extensive service to society, including disaster relief efforts, rescues during natural calamities and accidents, and ongoing assistance during normal times. The RSS emphasises that it serves people in distress, irrespective of their caste, colour, religion, or community.
A Proud Tradition of Peaceful Marches
The RSS takes pride in its long history of organising peaceful route marches that stretch from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Notably, in 1963, the then Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru had invited RSS to participate in the Republic Day march alongside the Army, with nearly 3,000 swayamsevaks taking part.
Challenges Faced by RSS in Tamil Nadu
Despite its reputation for abiding by the law, the RSS has faced challenges in Tamil Nadu. The state’s police force has treated RSS members as lawbreakers, forcing the organization to repeatedly approach the courts to secure their constitutional rights to conduct the annual route march.
This year, the RSS planned to conduct the route march on October 22nd and 29th. Despite applying for permission two months in advance and with thousands of cadres preparing for the event, the police denied permission and delayed taking action on their applications. In some districts, permission requests were flatly rejected.
Legal Battle and Contempt of Court Notices
In response, nearly 55 writ petitions were filed in both the Madras High Court and its Madurai bench. While the Madras High Court directed the police to grant approvals three days in advance, the Madurai Bench allowed the route march in 11 districts but denied permission in Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga, and Madurai due to other events. Subsequently, the police went on appeal to the Supreme Court.
In light of these developments, the RSS has issued contempt of court notices through lawyers to various police officials, including district superintendents of police and deputy superintendents of police. These contempt petitions will be heard on the 30th, after the Dasara holidays. The RSS remains committed to pursuing legal actions to restore its constitutional rights, with the aim of conducting route marches in all districts.
Despite the challenges faced, the RSS remains confident that, once their constitutional rights are reinstated, they will be able to continue their annual route marches in all districts. The organisation’s dedication to its traditions and principles remains steadfast as it upholds the importance of democracy and constitutional rights.
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