Act to control RSS will not stand in court: Former K’taka CM

Haveri, Aug 14 (IANS) Responding to the state government’s alleged move to introduce the Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill, 2026, in an attempt to curb the activities of RSS, former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said the Constitution framed by B.R. Ambedkar grants every citizen civil, personal and fundamental rights.

“Everyone must function within the framework of the law without violating these rights,” he said.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Bommai said India has a glorious heritage, rich culture, and a long tradition of celebrating festivals throughout the year.

“Such celebrations should serve to unite people. Those attempting to introduce laws that disrupt these practices are acting against the Constitution. Similar attempts in the past were defeated in courts, and any new attempt will meet the same fate,” he asserted.

Commenting on the Tribal Welfare scam, Bommai said former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself admitted in the Assembly that an irregularity of Rs 89 crore occurred in the Valmiki Development Corporation.

He added that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a charge sheet containing evidence of where the funds originated and where they were transferred.

“Despite this, re‑inducting B. Nagendra, who is facing a charge sheet, into the Cabinet demonstrates the Congress party’s disregard for the Constitution and morality. This is the height of arrogance, and the BJP strongly condemns it,” he said.

On the Davanagere bypoll, Bommai remarked that Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has lost his standing and respect within the Congress party and government.

“It is evident he is being sidelined at every step. Given that he has declined the responsibility of district in‑charge minister, we will have to wait and see his next move,” he observed.

Bommai strongly condemned the incident where miscreants performed a ‘purification’ ritual at the Ramlila Maidan in Uttarakhand after AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge delivered a speech there. “Performing a purification ritual at a site after a senior leader has spoken is an inexcusable offence. We will never accept this. It is an insult to him, and we do not support such actions,” he clarified.

Commenting on terrorism and security lapses in the state, Bommai referenced the arrests of suspects in Davanagere and Kalaburagi. He noted that intelligence inputs suggest sleeper cells are becoming active again and new recruitments are taking place.

“When we were in power, we arrested and jailed over 15 terrorists. However, despite intelligence inputs, the state police are now hesitating to take firm action because of political pressure and a lack of political will. As a result, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has had to step in. The government must not compromise on national security under any circumstances,” he demanded.

Responding to a question about cabinet developments, Bommai claimed it is evident that former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is unhappy with the cabinet expansion and decision‑making processes.

“Even his close associates are openly discussing how he is being sidelined. Major internal political developments are unfolding within the Congress party,” he said.