Political temperatures soared in Karnataka on Saturday as the state government's decision to deny permission for an RSS march in Chittapur district triggered a fiery exchange between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP.
Government Stands Firm on Security Grounds
The Karnataka administration, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, refused to grant authorization for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's planned procession, citing potential law and order concerns. Official sources indicated that intelligence inputs suggested the event could disrupt communal harmony in the sensitive region.
"Public safety remains our paramount concern," stated a senior state government official who requested anonymity. "After thorough assessment of the situation, we determined that permitting such a march could potentially escalate tensions in Chittapur."
BJP Launches Scathing Counterattack
The Bharatiya Janata Party responded with unprecedented aggression, drawing parallels between the Congress government and North Korea's authoritarian regime. Senior BJP leaders accused the administration of suppressing democratic rights and freedom of expression through what they termed "dictatorial tactics."
"The Congress government in Karnataka is behaving like Kim Jong-un's North Korea," thundered a prominent BJP spokesperson during a press conference. "Denying permission for a peaceful march reflects their growing intolerance and fear of nationalist organizations."
Deepening Political Divide
This confrontation marks another chapter in the ongoing political warfare between the Congress and BJP in the southern state. Political analysts suggest the incident could have significant ramifications for both parties as they prepare for upcoming local body elections.
The RSS, meanwhile, has maintained a measured response while expressing disappointment over the government's decision. Local organizers emphasized that the march was intended as a cultural demonstration rather than a political event.
Security has been heightened across Chittapur district as authorities monitor the situation closely. The district administration has deployed additional police forces to prevent any untoward incidents following the controversial decision.
