Bengaluru: The Congress-led Karnataka government has once again courted controversy after suspending a government employee for allegedly attending an event organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The move has triggered objection among Hindu outfits, with critics accusing the government of targeting individuals for their personal beliefs and misusing administrative power for political motives.
In the latest incident, Pramod, a contractual staff member working as a cook’s assistant at the Pre-Matric Boys’ Hostel in Basavakalyan, was suspended after photographs surfaced showing him participating in the RSS Path Sanchalan held in the town. The Tahsildar issued the suspension order citing a violation of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which restrict government employees from associating with “private organisations”.
However, many are questioning the government’s selective application of this rule, noting that no such restrictions have been applied to officials who attend events organised by other social or religious bodies. Opposition leaders argue that the Congress government is using administrative channels to suppress individuals with nationalist leanings and to appease certain vote banks ahead of elections.
The suspension follows the case of Praveen Kumar K.P., a Panchayat Development Officer from Raichur district, who was earlier suspended for attending a similar RSS event in Sirawar. He was seen wearing RSS uniform and participating in a march, which authorities described as a “breach of service discipline”.
Following these back-to-back actions, fear and resentment are spreading among government employees across the state. Sources in several districts have confirmed that photographs of teachers and staff attending RSS events are being closely monitored. In Basavakalyan alone, officials estimate that nearly 20 government employees were present at the Path Sanchalan.
Critics argue that the government’s approach is not only discriminatory but also unconstitutional. BJP leaders, including Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, condemned the action, calling it “illegal and politically motivated.” He stated, “There are multiple judgments from various high courts affirming that participation in RSS events does not violate service conduct rules. The government is acting out of political vendetta, not administrative necessity.”
The government’s decision is believed to be a direct fallout of a letter written by IT-BT and RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, demanding strict measures against officials who attend RSS functions. The opposition alleges that the government’s stance is part of a larger pattern of “ideological policing” under the guise of maintaining neutrality in administration.
Many government employees’ unions have privately expressed concern over the precedent being set. “If attending a cultural or social event can cost someone their job, where do we draw the line? Tomorrow it could be any organisation. This is administrative overreach,” said a senior employee association leader on condition of anonymity.
Legal experts have also pointed out that the government cannot selectively target employees based on political ideology, especially when no direct link exists between their personal participation and official duties.
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