Karnataka: PDO suspended for attending RSS event; cabinet bans private activities in govt institutions

NEW DELHI: A Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) in Karnataka's Raichur district has been suspended for allegedly participating in a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) event wearing the organization's uniform, officials reported on Friday.The officer, who was posted at Sirawar Taluk Panchayat, faced disciplinary action following concerns raised by state officials.The suspension comes after Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah requesting action against government officers and employees associated with RSS or participating in their events.

In a related development, the Karnataka Cabinet made a significant decision on Thursday to ban activities of private organizations in government and government-aided schools, colleges, and public places.The cabinet's decision specifically targets preventing RSS from conducting its Shakha activities in government institutions and public premises.

(with agecncy inputs)