Former minister K.S. Eshwarappa criticises Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge for RSS queries

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Former minister K.S. Eshwarappa on June 17 criticised Karnataka's Home Minister Priyank Kharge for writing a letter to RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, accusing him of targeting the organisation for publicity.

Mr. Eshwarappa questioned Mr. Kharge’s locus standi to raise issues concerning the RSS. “Who is he to question the RSS? Has he contributed even a rupee to the sangha? The sangha gives its account to those who deserve it. If Mr. Kharge has any authority as Home Minister, let him take action as per law. Why should he question the RSS?” he said.

Mr. Eshwarappa alleged that Mr. Kharge was repeatedly invoking the RSS in public speeches in Bengaluru, Kalaburagi, and even Delhi only to gain publicity. “He knows that if he takes the legal route, he can’t succeed. Hence, he is talking about the sangha through the media,” Mr. Eshwarappa said.

He also took strong exception to Mr. Kharge’s letter, stating that Mohan Bhagwat should not have responded to it. “He (Mr. Kharge) is kasa (garbage). He does not deserve any response,” Mr. Eshwarappa said.

Defending the RSS, Mr. Eshwarappa pointed out that hundreds of trusts and organisations function under the RSS banner, and are duly registered with the authorities. “They are responding to the agencies. If any authorised agency seeks information, the sangha will respond,” he said.

On the issue of security provided to Mr. Bhagwat, Mr. Eshwarappa said the RSS chief deserved it given the nature of threats he faces. “Mr. Bhagwat is the head of an organisation that has its members across the globe. There are terrorist activities. His life is important for the country. There is a threat to his life. If not for him, who else deserves security?” he said.

Mr. Eshwarappa also referred to an incident in Chittapur where, he claimed, Mr. Kharge had refused to allow an RSS jatha (march), but the court later permitted it. “The court has understood the importance of the organisation,” he said.

Mr. Eshwarappa recalled the political fate of several Cong