Overview
- The state cabinet approved the Karnataka Regulation of Use of Government Premises and Public Property Bill on Thursday, and the government plans to introduce it in the ongoing Monsoon session of the legislature.
- The draft requires organisers to seek prior written permission at least seven days before any procession, meeting, assembly or event on government land, buildings, roads, parks, playgrounds or other public property.
- Applications must list route, start and end times, estimated participants, vehicles and five responsible persons, and authorities may limit slogans, numbers, timings and possession of items such as lathis or other potential weapons.
- The Bill treats unauthorised use as trespass and prescribes steep penalties: first offences up to three years in jail or a ₹5 lakh fine, repeat offences up to five years or a ₹10 lakh fine, cognizable non‑bailable charges and arrest powers for sub‑inspectors.
- State leaders say the law is a neutral asset‑protection measure but the BJP and the RSS call it targeted; the draft is intended to replace an October 18, 2025 executive order that the Karnataka High Court stayed and legal challenges are likely after the Bill is tabled.