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Priyank Kharge’s remark on RSS invokes the question of legal personality The Karnataka Home Minister has asked about the registration, organisation structure, funding and donations and also about the overall functioning of the RSS

Karnataka govt. asks RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to send representatives to explain legal status on registration of organisation Quoting the 2025-2026 report of the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, the highest decision-making body of the RSS, Home Minister Priyank Kharge has said that the organisation has significant footprint in Karnataka, with 4,127 daily shakhas, 1,389 weekly milans, and 60 monthly mandalis

Priyank Kharge seeks RSS funding, legal status details; Mohan Bhagwat responds Karnataka Home MinisterPriyank Kharge on Monday wrote to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, asking the organisation to clarify its legal status, registration, sources of funding and expenditure, among other details. In a two-page letter to Bhagwat, Kharge pointed out that the RSS has a significant presence inKarnataka, with over 60,000 shakhas and affiliated activities across the state, and argued that such a large organisation cannot remain outside legal oversight. “In a constitutional democracy, no organisation, however old, large or influential, can remain above scrutiny. Every citizen, association, institution and body that operates in public life is expected to comply with the law,” Kharge said in his letter. Bhagwat, however, hit back at the Karnataka government's demand, saying the RSS does not require registration as it does not receive government funding. He noted that the organisation has been functioning in India for 100 years and that no authority had previously insisted on its registration. Describing the demand as politically motivated, Bhagwat accused the state government of attempting to create…

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS June 16, 2026 14:37 IST Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has escalated his call for the RSS to register and enhance transparency, challenging the organisation's stance on public accountability despite its considerable social and political influence and taxpayer-funded protocols. Keeping up the heat on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over the issue of its registration, Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has asked the organisation to 'shun the arrogance' and follow the law, asserting that it cannot simultaneously exercise 'enormous social and political influence' while repeatedly insisting that it has no political agenda. Kharge's late Monday social media post came in response to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat rejecting calls for the Sangh to register itself. He said Bhagwat's immediate assertion that the RSS is under no obligation to answer any questions -- 'while he enjoys every protocol funded by taxpayers' is the most troubling'. It reflects a mindset that public accountability is optional and that the organisation stands above legal scrutiny. "In a constitutional democracy, no institution, however old or i…

'Follower of Ambedkar; afraid of none': Priyank hits back at BJP MP ... Karnataka home minister Priyank Kharge on Thursday asserted that he is afraid of none for being the follower of B R Ambedkar, as he accused BJP MP Ramesh Jigajinagi of suggesting that Dalits had no right to question the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The remarks came a day after the BJP MP said that “those who have taken on RSS have not survived”, amid ongoing debate over the Sangh’s legal status with Kharge pressing the organisation to disclose its legal status, organisational structure and finances. Kharge has argued that an organisation with such an extensive national presence should be held to the same standards of transparency and constitutional accountability as other public bodies. Earlier this week, Kharge wrote to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat seeking details of the organisation’s registration, office bearers, sources of income, expenditure, assets and tax compliance. The RSS and the BJP rejected the demand. Bhagwat said the organisation functions openly and that formal registration is generally required only for organisations seeking government funding. Kharge later said he had written the letter in …

Kharge Stands Firm Amid Legal Challenges: Questions RSS's Role Kharge Stands Firm Amid Legal Challenges: Questions RSS's Role Karnataka's Home Minister Priyank Kharge, undeterred by a court summon, continues to question the RSS's influence and constitutional adherences, alleging their ties with the BJP. Legal proceedings initiated by Tejas Gowda claim defamation, pushing Kharge to defend his stance on the RSS's historical and present-day operations. Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 30-06-2026 13:50 IST | Created: 30-06-2026 13:50 IST Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge (Photo/ANI). Image Credit: ANI Country: India SHARE In a resolute stand, Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge declared he will not be silenced by legal threats after a Bengaluru court issued summons against him over remarks aimed at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Speaking to reporters, Kharge stressed the support of the Constitution empowers him to question the RSS. The summons, also involving Pradesh Youth Congress leader Mohammed Haris Nalapad, follow accusations of defamation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Initiator of the complaint, Tejas Gowda, expressed his dismay over Kharge's remarks and s…

"Dalits have right to question RSS": Kharge hits back at Jigajinagi's ... Dalits &Adivasis India “Dalits have right to question RSS”: Kharge hits back at Jigajinagi’s controversial remarks Karnataka IT and Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge. By Muslim Mirror Desk June 19, 2026 In a sharp rebuttal to BJP MP Ramesh Jigajinagi’s controversial comments, Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has accused him of making casteist remarks that expose deep-seated prejudice about who is entitled to question the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Jigajinagi had asked, “Why should a Dalit person be concerned about the RSS?” while warning that no one who challenged the organisation had survived. He also questioned Kharge’s competence to handle the Home portfolio. Responding strongly, Priyank Kharge described the statements as reflective of casteist bias. He posed several pointed questions: whether Jigajinagi’s remarks stemmed from his own frustration as a Dalit denied entry into the RSS’s inner circle; whether they served as a warning for Dalits to stay away from an organisation that upholds hierarchical social order; or if they mocked the idea that a Dalit has no right to question an en…

Priyank Kharge Writes To Mohan Bhagwat, Seeks Clarity On RSS Legal Status Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday wrote to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat seeking clarification on the organisation’s legal status, registration, funding, taxation and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? — HubSpot (@HubSpot) Sharing a copy of the letter on X, Kharge congratulated the RSS on completing 100 years but argued that an organisation of its size and influence should be transparent and publicly accountable. He said the RSS, which claims to have more than 60,000 shakhas and crores of swayamsevaks across the country, should disclose details regarding its registration, office-bearers, finances, expenditure and permissions obtained for public activities. Referring to the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha’s 2025–26 Karnataka report, Kharge highlighted that the RSS operates 4,127 daily shakhas, 1,389 weekly milans and 60 monthly mandalis in the state. He also noted that the organisation conducted 2,194 Samajotsavas involving 19.61 lakh participants and organised 562 route marc…

Priyank Kharge responds to BJP MP Ramesh Jigajinagi's RSS remarks Nation and Beyond Priyank Kharge stands by Ambedkar amid RSS criticism and threats by BJP MP TNM (With ANI Inputs) | Published On: Jun 19, 2026 ANI Photo | Priyank Kharge stands by Ambedkar amid RSS criticism and threats by BJP MP Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge issued a firm response on June 19 to comments made by BJP MP Ramesh Jigajinagi, who questioned Kharge’s criticism of the RSS, asking, “Tell me what a Dalit person got to do with RSS.” Kharge stated that Jigajinagi’s question warranted examination from various perspectives, especially considering Jigajinagi’s own Dalit identity. He asked, “Is this a statement of frustration from Ramesh Jigajinagi, a Dalit himself, over not getting entry into the RSS’ sanctum sanctorum?” Also Read ICC chairman Jay Shah discusses cricket development with Sri Lanka president Irankunda aims to emulate Messi in Australia’s World Cup debut performance Abhishek Banerjee challenges legitimacy of breakaway TMC faction of 20 MPs He further probed whether the remarks served as a warning or indicated ideological exclusion, suggesting, “Or is it a warning that Dalits should not associat…

Priyank Kharge Warns Of Legal Action If RSS Fails To Submit Requested ... Bengaluru: Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday said he would continue to ask the RSS to produce documents related to its establishment and expenditure. He also indicated that he would initiate legal action if he did not get any satisfactory reply. The minister has launched a campaign against the century-old RSS demanding documents to prove that they are registered in the country and produce their financial transactions. "It’s just a week since I asked them for details. They are patriots with 100 years of history. They must have documents somewhere – either in Nagpur, in Keshava Krupa in Bengaluru (state RSS headquarters) or at the Sarsangh Chalak’s residence," Kharge told reporters when asked about the status of his query posted on the social media demanding the establishment and expenses of the RSS. Insisting that the RSS leaders would get the documents shortly, he said the century-old organisation should be given some time. "Why is there such a hurry? Give them some time. They may have to create one, if they don’t have any documents," the minister said. When reporters said what if the RSS di…

Priyank Kharge Writes to RSS Chief, Seeks Details About Sources of Donations, Income, Tax Paid - The Wire Since 2015, The Wire has done just that.But we can continue only withyour support. New Delhi:Citing the fact that in a constitutional democracy, no organisation, however old, large or influential, can remain above scrutiny, Karnataka home minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge has written to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, urging the outfit to provide information including those pertaining to its legal status and organisational structure, whether it is paying taxes and also details about sources of donations, contributions and income. Kharge on Monday (June 15) shared the letter to Bhagwat dated June 13on his official X accountand said that in its centenary year, the RSS must responsibly abide by the Constitution and register, disclose, pay applicable taxes and function transparently within the Constitution. In the letter, Kharge congratulates the RSS on completing 100 years of its existence and says that an organisation that claims to have over 60,000 shakhas and crores of swayamsevaks across India and abroad undoubtedly has a significant presen…

Priyank Kharge urges RSS to register; Bhagwat says Sangh has nothing to ... Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge said Monday he has written to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat seeking details on the organisation’s legal status, finances, office-bearers and tax compliance, escalating his demand that the century-old organisation register itself and disclose its operations. Meanwhile, Bhagwat hit back, saying Kharge’s demand was politically motivated, and there was “nothing serious”, and accused the Karnataka Government of attempting to create confusion among the public. In a letter dated June 13, Kharge noted that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh claims to have over 60,000 shakhas and crores of swayamsevaks across India and abroad. “It is precisely because of this scale, influence and reach that the RSS must be held to the highest standards of transparency, accountability and constitutional compliance,” he said. The home minister also cited the 2025–26 annual report of the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), saying that the RSS has “a significant footprint in Karnataka, with 4,127 daily shakhas, 1,389 weekly milans and 60 monthly mandalis”. Kharge noted that the organisation had re…

Priyank Kharge's anti-RSS move fuels congress power struggle In a move that has stirred fresh political debate within Karnataka’s Congress government, IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge has once again written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, this time demanding that government employees and officials be barred from participating in Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities. The letter comes barely a week after his earlier appeal to restrict RSS activities in government schools and institutions — a development that has now taken a distinctly political turn. In his latest letter, Priyank urged the Chief Minister to direct departments to issue circulars warning of disciplinary action against officials who engage in RSS-linked events. Citing existing service rules, Kharge claimed that no government employee should be part of any political or ideological organisation. “Despite clear rules, some officials are taking part in programs organized by RSS and its affiliates. This needs to be curbed,” the minister wrote, insisting that a formal circular be issued immediately. Fresh controversy brews over Priyank’s persistence This renewed push from Priyank Kharge comes at a politically cha…

Priyank Kharge asks RSS to 'follow the law' amid row over registration ... A fresh political row has erupted over the legal status and accountability of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), with Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge urging the organisation to "shun arrogance" and subject itself to the same standards of transparency and legal scrutiny as other public bodies. Kharge's remarks came in response tocomments made by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who recently dismissed demands for the organisation to formally register itself, arguing that the RSS operates openly and has nothing to hide. In a social media post late on Monday, Kharge questioned Bhagwat's assertion that the RSS was under no obligation to answer such questions, despite exercising considerable social and political influence across the country. "In a constitutional democracy, no institution, however old or influential, can claim exemption from public accountability," Kharge said, adding that organisations operating at such a scale must be prepared to explain their legal status, structure and functioning. The Congress leader argued that while the RSS has every right to function as a cultural organisation, it c…

'Intimidation tactics; RSS not above Constitution': Priyank Kharge hits ... BENGALURU: Rural Development and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday dismissed reports of a special court in Bengaluru issuing notice to him over his comments on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling it an attempt to use “intimidation tactics” against those raising valid questions about the organisation. “They are trying intimidation tactics, it’s nothing new. We are raising valid questions about RSS and their funding, and their existence. Just because you are a body of individuals, show me one rule in the country which says you should not be registered”, Priyank Kharge said, emphasising that accountability applies to all institutions in the country. “In a country where temples are held accountable, NGOs are held accountable, other associations of persons and bodies of individuals are held accountable. Why is RSS not held accountable? This is going to happen…The Constitution is still alive in India. RSS is not above the Constitution, nor am I”, he added. Earlier today, Kharge shared an article on the social media platform X, which reported that a special court had issued notices to him and fe…

Karnataka: Priyank Kharge asks RSS to register, disclose finances and ... Listen to this article in summarized format Listen Loading... × × Subscribe to Unlock AI Briefing and Premium Content New Year Offer 24 Hours Left Subscribe Now Already a member? Sign In What's Included Exclusive Stories Daily ePaper Access Smart Market Tools Curated Investment Ideas Ad-lite Experience Subscription Agencies Priyank Kharge Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday wrote to RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat , urging the organisation to formally register itself, disclose its activities and finances, pay taxes and function with greater transparency and accountability within the framework of Indian law. Congratulating the RSS on its centenary year, Kharge said an organisation of its scale, influence and reach must adhere to the highest standards of transparency, accountability and constitutional compliance. Referring to figures cited by the RSS, Kharge said the organisation had conducted 2,194 Samajotsavas involving 19.6 lakh participants and organised 562 route marches across Karnataka with more than 2.2 lakh uniformed participants. Also read | Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhi…

RSS decides against responding to Priyank Kharge's letter Priyank Kharge Bengaluru : The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has reportedly decided not to respond to Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge’s letter seeking clarification on the organisation’s registration status, with senior functionaries believing that engaging in the issue at this stage would only prolong the controversy. According to sources, the decision was taken during an RSS meeting held on Wednesday, where BJP leaders were also reportedly advised to refrain from making public statements on the matter. Sources said the RSS leadership noted that Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat has already addressed the issue of the organisation’s registration on several occasions, including during his visits to Kerala and Karnataka . The leaders reportedly observed that the Sangh’s position on the matter has been made clear in the past and does not require further clarification. During the meeting, it was also pointed out that questions regarding the RSS and its organisational structure have been raised periodically over the past century, and that there was no need to continue engaging in a debate that has already been addressed multipl…

Karnataka Home Minister writes to RSS chief seeking details on funds ... Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has written to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat seeking details on the organisation's legal status, finances, office-bearers, funding, and compliance with statutory requirements, reviving a long-running debate over the Sangh’s structure and transparency. In his letter dated June 13, Priyank questioned how an organisation with the RSS’s scale of operations functions without being registered as a society, trust, or company, and argued that it should be subject to the same standards of disclosure expected from other public organisations. "An organisation that claims over 60,000 shakhas and crores of swayamsevaks must also uphold transparency and constitutional accountability," Priyank wrote in a social media post on Monday, June 15. The Minister asked the RSS to place in the public domain details relating to its legal status, organisational structure, office-bearers, sources of donations and income, expenditure, assets, tax compliance, and the legal basis on which it operates without formal registration. "No organisation, however old, large or influ…

Priyank Kharge calls for RSS compliance with legal norms Nation and Beyond Priyank Kharge calls for RSS to comply with legal norms amid registration dispute TNM (With ANI Inputs) | Published On: Jun 16, 2026 ANI Photo | Priyank Kharge calls for RSS to comply with legal norms amid registration dispute Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge reiterated that no institution in a constitutional democracy is above the law, addressing the legal status of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Kharge stated on the social media platform X that a video of Mohan Bhagwat circulating as a response to his recent letter was inaccurately timed, noting, “I dispatched my letter and put it up on social media on June 15, while this interaction by the RSS Chief was on June 13/14.” Also Read Himachal Pradesh CM opens redeveloped Fountain Chowk and e-bus charging depot Two killed as wall collapses on parked car during heavy rain in Mahabubnagar Ashok Gehlot supports Rahul Gandhi’s NEET ‘Echo of Students’ rally highlighting youth depression The minister affirmed the RSS’s right to function as a cultural organisation but criticised its exercise of wide political influence without public accountability. He …

Priyank Kharge Calls for RSS Registration and Financial Disclosure Kharge Raises Transparency Concerns Priyank Kharge has demanded that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh register formally, make its financial records public, and comply with tax obligations applicable under the law. The Karnataka minister argued that organizations with significant public influence should maintain transparency regarding their funding sources and financial operations. Call for Financial Disclosure Kharge's remarks focused on the need for greater financial accountability. According to him, organizations that play a prominent role in society should be subject to disclosure norms that enable public scrutiny of: Sources of funding Donations received Expenditure patterns Financial management practices Tax compliance status The demand has sparked fresh political discussion over regulatory oversight of large organizations. Debate Over Registration Status The issue raised by Kharge centers on whether organizations with extensive nationwide activities should operate under formal registration frameworks and reporting requirements. Supporters of greater disclosure argue that transparency strengthens public trust a…

Priyank Kharge seeks transparency from RSS, writes to Mohan Bhagwat ... KARNATAKA Politics Priyank Kharge seeks transparency from RSS, writes to Mohan Bhagwat with eight key questions Priyank Kharge has written to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, raising eight questions related to the organisation’s legal status, finances, assets, taxation, registration and public accountability, while urging that the details be disclosed publicly. Dhanya Reddy 15 Jun 2026 16:24 IST Follow Us Advertisment Priyank Kharge writes to Mohan Bhagwat. Eight major questions raised on RSS functioning. Minister seeks public disclosure of details. Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has written to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, seeking public clarification on the organisation’s legal status, finances, assets, office-bearers and compliance with existing laws. Advertisment A fresh political debate has emerged after Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge wrote a letter to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, seeking detailed information about the organisation’s structure, finances and legal standing. In his communication, Kharge urged the RSS leadership to publicly clarify several aspects of the organisation’s functioning. The minister has rai…

Priyank Kharge vows legal fight, renews demand for RSS registration after Bengaluru court summons “Where are its donations coming from? Who is maintaining the accounts? Who is benefiting from it and who is losing because of it? All of that should become known,” Mr. Kharge added

Kharge defends call for legal oversight of RSS | India News Priyank Kharge on Tuesday doubled down on his demand that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) be brought under a formal legal framework, rejecting the attacks by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over his letter to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and saying there was nothing unconstitutional about seeking transparency and accountability from an organisation with a significant public presence. The Karnataka minister also dismissed claims circulating on social media that a video of Bhagwat was a response to his letter. Kharge said he had dispatched the letter and made it public on June 15, while the RSS chief’s interaction being shared online had taken place on June 13 or 14. “A video of Dr Mohan Bhagwat ji is being widely circulated as a response to my letter is false. I dispatched my letter and put it up on social media on June 15, while this interaction by the RSS Chief was on June 13/14,” Kharge wrote. Defending his position, Kharge said the RSS was free to function as a cultural organisation but could not wield extensive social and political influence while claiming it was under no obligation to answer public questions. “…

RSS must register, pay taxes: Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge writes to Mohan Bhagwat Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has urged RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to disclose the organization's legal status, finances, and tax compliance. Citing the RSS's extensive presence and public mobilization, Kharge argued for accountability in a constitutional democracy. He called for transparency, suggesting formal registration and adherence to Indian laws, especially following recent remarks on university VCs attending RSS events.