Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge Granted Bail in RSS Defamation Case

The case, heard by the 42nd Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, stems from allegations of disparaging comments made against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Complainant Tejas A, a local RSS worker, initiated the legal action after Kharge allegedly posted critical remarks on X last October, while Nalapad reportedly broadcast offensive statements via a YouTube channel. The court formally took cognisance of the matter on June 29 under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Kharge has maintained a confrontational stance toward the organization, recently penning an open letter to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. In his correspondence, the minister demanded transparency regarding the group's legal status, financial records, and constitutional adherence as it approaches its centenary. The minister has frequently questioned the RSS's historical role in the independence movement and its internal governance, asserting that an organization of its scale must be held to strict public accountability standards. The defendants are now awaiting further proceedings following the court's decision to grant them relief.