Tribunal Stays Suspension of Karnataka Teachers Who Attended RSS Event
Karnataka tribunal stays suspension of two teachers disciplined for attending an RSS event, citing lack of official prohibition.
The Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KAT) Bench in Kalaburagi has intervened in the case of two government school teachers who were suspended for attending an event organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The tribunal has stayed the suspension orders, providing interim relief to the teachers.
The teachers, Gururaj Joshi and Annasaheb Deshmukh, serve in government schools in Kuppi and Hunsagi respectively. They were suspended on August 20, 2026, by the Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) of Yadgir, C.S. Mudhol. The suspension was based on incidents reported on October 10 and 12, 2025, which the DDPI claimed violated the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021.
However, the KAT bench observed that the event in question was organised by a non-political organisation, and therefore, participation did not breach Rule 5 of the Conduct Rules. The tribunal also noted that the state government has not issued any official notification or order prohibiting government employees from attending such events.
While granting the interim stay, the tribunal has directed the state government and educational authorities to file their reply statements. The next hearing is scheduled for October 9, 2026. Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Mudhol said he had received the order and would consult higher authorities on further action.