The Karnataka High Court on Sunday directed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to file a fresh petition seeking permission to conduct a route march in Chittapur, the constituency of State Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge, on November 2.
The court instructed the RSS to submit the new application to the respective District Collectors, along with details of the proposed route.
During the hearing, the court also addressed petitions from the Bhim Army and Dalit Panthers, who had sought permission to hold separate protests. 
The bench directed that both the RSS and Bhim Army be allotted distinct time slots for their respective events to prevent any conflict.
The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for October 24.
The case comes amid an ongoing row between the Karnataka government and the RSS following Priyank Kharge&rsquo;s remarks seeking to restrict RSS activities in government institutions. 
Kharge had earlier urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to impose a ban on RSS programmes in government schools, colleges, and state-owned temples, arguing that only syllabus-related activities should be permitted.
He also called for action against government officials participating in RSS programmes, citing a violation of Rule 5(1) of the Karnataka State Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021.
In the wake of his statements, security around Kharge&rsquo;s residence was tightened after he reportedly received threats.
Kharge on Sunday also criticised BJP MPs for defending a state government officer suspended for allegedly attending an RSS Pathshala event.
&ldquo;BJP MPs are coming forward and defending people who are defying the service conduct rules laid down by the State Government. This itself proves my point,&rdquo; Kharge said.
He reiterated on X (formerly Twitter) that government servants must adhere to service rules that prohibit association with any political party or organisation involved in politics.
&ldquo;The rules state, "No Government Servant shall be a member of, or be otherwise associated with, any political party or any organisation which takes part in politics, nor shall he take part in, subscribe in aid of, or assist in any other manner, any political movement or activity,&rsquo;&rdquo; he wrote.
The controversy continues to highlight the tension between the Karnataka government and the RSS over the organisation&rsquo;s presence in state institutions.

Karnataka High Court building in Bengaluru

Court directs RSS to reapply for route march in Chittapur; hearing adjourned to Oct 24

Karnataka HC Tells RSS To File Fresh Plea

Court directs RSS to reapply for route march in Chittapur; hearing adjourned to Oct 24

October 19, 2025 | 22:26 IST