Karnataka passes bill mandating prior approval for private events on public property

The Karnataka cabinet has approved a new bill requiring government permission before private events can be held on state-owned public spaces. The legislation is intended to regulate all public gatherings and will replace an existing executive order on the matter. State authorities have clarified that the bill is not directed at any particular organization or political party, including the RSS. It will cover all types of public assemblies, such as meetings and route marches. The bill is set to be formally introduced and enacted during the current legislative session.