Karnataka Tribunal Halts Teacher’s Suspension Over RSS Event Participation
The Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KSAT) in Kalburgi recently ruled to stay the suspension of a government school teacher, Gururaj, who had attended an event organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) [Gururaj v. State of Karnataka]. The decision was delivered by a bench consisting of Judicial Member SY Watawati and Administrative Member Dr. Amita Prasad.
Tribunal’s Findings
The tribunal concluded that Gururaj did not breach the Karnataka State Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021. These rules prohibit government employees from participating in activities organized by political parties or associations involved in political activities. Importantly, the tribunal clarified that the RSS is not classified as a political party, and thus, attending its events does not constitute a violation of the said rules.
In their ruling, Members Watawati and Prasad noted, “When he participated in the event organized by a non-political party, the act of the applicant did not violate the conditions stipulated under Rule 5 of the Conduct Rules, 2021 referred to supra. Further, the State Government has not issued any order or notification prohibiting any Government Official from participating in such an event.”
Background of the Case
Gururaj, who serves as an assistant teacher at Government Girls High School in Hunasagi, was suspended by the Deputy Director of the Department of School Education in Yadgiri on August 20, 2026. The suspension was a consequence of his participation in RSS events, which the department viewed as a breach of conduct rules.
However, Gururaj argued that there is no explicit prohibition against participating in events by non-political organizations. He also highlighted that Rule 7, which was cited in the suspension order, had been removed from the Conduct Rules as far back as April 25, 1968.
Legal Representation
Advocate MM Sangond represented Gururaj in the matter, while Additional Government Advocate Viranagouda M Biradar appeared on behalf of the State and the Department of School Education. The tribunal’s decision has underscored the distinction between political and non-political entities, thereby impacting how participation in such events is viewed under the law.
This ruling is significant as it clarifies the standing of the RSS in relation to government employment regulations and may influence future cases involving similar circumstances.
