KPCC President Compares RSS to Terror Groups Over Patriotism Claims

On August 17, 2026, B.K. Hariprasad, president of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), compared the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to international terrorist groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Taliban during a press conference, targeting them over patriotism and legal registration status. He criticized RSS for not singing Vande Mataram or hoisting the national flag, reinforcing Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge's demand for public clarification on RSS's legal standing and accountability regarding property and donations. This follows an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi over Vande Mataram disruption allegations and recent remarks by Kerala VC Mohanan Kunnummal criticizing those opposing the national song. BJP National General Secretary B.L. Santhosh argued that the RSS does not need legal registration, stating it has operated since 1925 without statutory status.