Kalaburagi: Chittapur city witnessed the long-awaited annual Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) path sanchalan on November 16, finally taking place after weeks of legal challenges and administrative delays. The path sanchalan which started from the Bazaar Kalyana Mantap at 3:45 pm, attracted thousands of spectators who lined on the streets to cheer and shower flowers on the participants. The procession, held in the backdrop of RSS’s centenary celebrations, was carried out under tight security and strict adherence to court orders.
The journey to today’s successful parade had been anything but smooth. Earlier this month, the local administration had denied permission for the RSS procession, citing concerns over public order, crowd management, and adherence to COVID-19 protocols. The denial prompted strong objections from the RSS, which argued that the event was an annual cultural and patriotic celebration with a long-standing tradition in Chittapur. RSS leaders contended that proper planning and coordination with the authorities could ensure safety and discipline during the parade.
Following the denial, RSS leaders filed a petition in the High Court, requesting that permission be granted for the parade under specific conditions to maintain law and order. During the hearings, the court carefully considered the administration’s objections and the RSS’s assurances regarding participant numbers, route of path sanchalan, and safety measures. After multiple hearings and detailed submissions from both sides, the High Court passed an order allowing the path sanchalan to proceed with clear restrictions: only 300 swayamsevaks participants dressed in Ganwesh and 50 sloganeers were permitted, and activists from outside Chittapur could only participate if pre-listed by the RSS.
The court emphasised compliance with security measures, including monitoring through CCTV cameras and deployment of sufficient police personnel.
With the court’s permission secured, the path sanchalan began in the afternoon. Around 300 swaymsevaks marched in disciplined formations, holding sticks and chanting patriotic slogans. Over 50 sloganeers added enthusiasm with their rhythmic chants, while small children dressed in Ganwesh , freedom fighters, and Ganwesh-wearers contributed a special emotional touch to the event.
The path sanchalan began with the chant “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” accompanied by the RSS song “Namaste Sada Vatsale,” and moved through Ambedkar Circle, Basava Hospital, HDFC Bank Road, and Basaveshwara Circle before returning to the starting point at Bajaj Kalyana Mantap. The total distance covered was 1.25 km, lasting roughly 47 minutes.
Strict security arrangements ensured a smooth event. Kalaburagi SP Addur Srinivasalu oversaw the deployment of 650 personnel, including police inspectors, KSRP DAR squad members, and 250 home guards. Additionally, 12 municipal CCTV cameras, 44 police cameras, and five drone cameras monitored the parade closely. Along the route, 200 flags, buntings, and placards were permitted under municipal guidelines. Despite high public turnout, no untoward incidents occurred, and the parade concluded peacefully at 4:22 pm.
The event also saw participants hoisting the saffron flag at the home constituency of IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, a symbolic gesture reflecting RSS’s commitment to its centenary celebrations. Residents applauded the disciplined procession, and women and children actively showered flowers, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The successful completion of the RSS path sanchalan in Chittapur today marks the resolution of a month-long legal and administrative tussle, highlighting the city’s ability to balance tradition, public enthusiasm, and safety measures.
