Karnataka High Court Halts State's Restrictive Assembly Order

In a significant legal development, the Dharwad Bench of the Karnataka High Court has issued an interim stay on a state directive requiring private organizations to obtain permission before conducting activities on government-owned premises.

The order has faced criticism for impinging on constitutional rights related to assembly and association. Justice M Nagaprasanna granted the stay and postponed further hearings to November 17. The contentious directive is perceived as targeting right-wing group activities, including those of the RSS.

The government's order mandates obtaining permission for gatherings exceeding ten people, with exemptions for marriages and funerals. Critics argue it criminalizes legitimate assemblies in public spaces. The order was prompted by a Cabinet decision, following requests to curtail RSS events on public property.