'Act Of High-Handedness': Tejasvi Surya Backs Karnataka Officer Suspended For Attending RSS March

Last Updated:October 18, 2025, 16:25 IST

Surya said he would personally intervene in the case, challenging the suspension before the relevant tribunal and court

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya. (Image: PTI/File)

BJP Member of Parliament Tejasvi Surya has launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka government following the suspension of a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) for participating in an RSS event, labelling the action an “act of high handedness" and assuring that the order will be swiftly overturned.

Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, Surya, who is also a legal professional, confirmed he would personally intervene in the case, challenging the suspension before the relevant tribunal and court.

“This illegal and unlawful suspension will be quashed," the MP stated confidently. “I have no doubt that this illegal and unlawful suspension will be quashed by the court. And a message will be sent that such intimidating tactics to suppress the right to join and partake in organisation’s activity, which is a fundamental right, won’t be hampered by the state government’s high-handedness."

The controversy revolves around the interpretation of service conduct rules, with Surya asserting that the state government’s action was based on their misinterpretation.

“Karnataka service rules, like central service rules, do not prohibit public servants from participating in RSS programmes. They prohibit them from taking part in political party activities," he explained. “The RSS rally was a socio-cultural programme."

To back his legal stance, the BJP MP cited multiple legal precedents, noting that the matter has been conclusively decided across the country. “There are judgments all across the country. High courts in Kerala and Madhya Pradesh, [as well as the] Rajasthan High Court, have decided the subject matter," he said.

Responding to the state government’s measures, including stopping the use of government properties and introducing new General Orders (GOs) targeting RSS activities, Surya drew a parallel with Tamil Nadu.

“They may bring more such rules and make attempts," he said. “All this has failed in a state like Tamil Nadu. Because of high court intervention, RSS programs have gone unhindered."

The MP concluded by reaffirming the resilience of the organisation. “This is a test in a series of challenges RSS has always been subjected to. Sangh has seen such challenges, and we will continue to grow stronger despite such challenges," he added, reiterating his commitment to see the suspension order reversed. “I will personally appear before the tribunal and court to challenge this suspension order."

Harish Upadhya

Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi...Read More

Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi...

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News politics 'Act Of High-Handedness': Tejasvi Surya Backs Karnataka Officer Suspended For Attending RSS March

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