The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill, 2026, which proposes mandatory prior government permission for private organisations, associations and groups seeking to conduct programmes on government premises or public property.
The proposed legislation covers government lands, buildings, playgrounds, parks, roads and other public assets. It is expected to establish a statutory framework for granting permissions and impose penalties in cases involving misuse or damage to public property.
The Bill is expected to be introduced during the ongoing monsoon session of the Karnataka Legislature. It would replace an October 2025 government order that had introduced similar restrictions but was later stayed by the Karnataka High Court over concerns including fundamental rights.
The move has also become politically significant because of the ongoing dispute between the Karnataka government and the RSS over the use of public spaces for activities and route marches. However, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and Home Minister Priyank Kharge have said the proposed law is not aimed at any particular organisation and would apply generally to those seeking to use public property.
The government says the objective is to ensure that public assets are used responsibly and that events are conducted only after the required permissions and documentation are completed.The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill, 2026, which proposes mandatory prior government permission for private organisations, associations and groups seeking to conduct programmes on government premises or public property.
The proposed legislation covers government lands, buildings, playgrounds, parks, roads and other public assets. It is expected to establish a statutory framework for granting permissions and impose penalties in cases involving misuse or damage to public property.
The Bill is expected to be introduced during the ongoing monsoon session of the Karnataka Legislature. It would replace an October 2025 government order that had introduced similar restrictions but was later stayed by the Karnataka High Court over concerns including fundamental rights.
The move has also become politically significant because of the ongoing dispute between the Karnataka government and the RSS over the use of public spaces for activities and route marches. However, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and Home Minister Priyank Kharge have said the proposed law is not aimed at any particular organisation and would apply generally to those seeking to use public property.
The government says the objective is to ensure that public assets are used responsibly and that events are conducted only after the required permissions and documentation are completed.
