Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has vowed to legally contest a Bengaluru court summons issued against him in a defamation case, while renewing his demand for the registration of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Speaking to reporters on 28 June 2026, Kharge asserted that the Constitution and law are on his side, and he will not be intimidated by legal pressure.
Court Summons and Legal Strategy
The Bengaluru civil court summoned Kharge in response to a defamation complaint filed by RSS leaders over his remarks questioning the organisation's registration status. Kharge stated that he will appear before the court and present his case, emphasizing that the summons will not deter him from continuing to demand transparency from the RSS. "The Constitution and law are on our side. We will fight this legally," he said, adding that such legal actions are expected when one speaks truth to power.
Renewed Call for RSS Registration
Kharge reiterated his demand that the RSS should be registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, arguing that the organisation's structure and activities warrant greater scrutiny. He noted that the RSS has been operating without formal registration for decades, which he claimed is a violation of legal norms. "They (RSS) will try to exert pressure in every possible way," Kharge warned, but affirmed that his party remains committed to pursuing the issue through proper legal channels.
Political Reactions and Implications
The summons has sparked political debate in Karnataka, with ruling Congress leaders backing Kharge while BJP members criticized his remarks. Kharge's stance reflects a broader push by some secular parties to legally challenge the RSS's unregistered status. The case is expected to be heard in the coming weeks, with Kharge's legal team preparing to argue that his statements were made in public interest and protected under free speech.
