KAT remains a suspension of two governments. school teachers disciplined for attending RSS event

In a significant development, the Kalaburagi bench of the Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KAT) stayed the suspension of two government school teachers who were punished for allegedly participating in an event organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

The bench granted an interim stay while hearing separate petitions filed by Gururaj Joshi and Annasaheb Deshmukh, who are serving as government teachers in Kuppi and Hunsagi. The stay order will remain in place until the next hearing date on October 9, 2026.

​On 20 August 2026, the Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI), Yadgir, CS Mudhol, suspended the two teachers citing the incidents that allegedly took place on 10 and 12 October 2025.

​Invoking various provisions of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, the DDPI alleged that participation in an event organized by the RSS constituted a violation of the rules of conduct required of state government employees.

​In its decision, the KAT stated that the event was organized by a non-political organization, so the participation did not violate the provisions set out in Rule 5 of the 2021 Rules of Conduct.

The tribunal further observed that the state government had not issued any official notification or order specifically prohibiting government officials from participating in such events.

Staying the DDPI’s disciplinary proceedings, the tribunal directed the state government and the school authorities to submit their replies. The matter is adjourned to 9 October 2026.

Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Mudhol said that he had just received the tribunal’s order and would discuss it with higher authorities on the next course of action.

Published – 03 Sep 2026 23:12 IST