The Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) voiced strong objections after a video surfaced showing a group of people offering namaz inside Terminal 2 of Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. The party described the incident as a “serious security concern” and accused the Congress-led state government of double standards.
BJP spokesperson Vijay Prasad took to X to question how such an activity was permitted within a high-security zone. “How is this even allowed inside the T2 Terminal of Bengaluru International Airport? Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister Priyank Kharge, do you approve of this?” he asked.
Prasad alleged that while the state government routinely objects to activities organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), it appears to ignore similar events by other groups. “Did these individuals have prior permission to offer namaz in a high-security airport area? The government objects when the RSS conducts Patha Sanchalana even after seeking permission, yet turns a blind eye to this,” he wrote.
He further questioned whether such gatherings were in line with airport security regulations, warning that they could pose a potential risk in a restricted public space. Along with his post, Prasad shared a video purportedly showing several men dressed in white and black standing in rows and performing namaz inside the terminal, while security personnel looked on.
The incident has reignited political debate in Karnataka, coming shortly after remarks made by state minister Priyank Kharge regarding the RSS. Earlier this month, Kharge had criticised the organisation for its “secrecy” and lack of registration, questioning why it had not been brought under legal scrutiny.
“I have no problem with the RSS as long as it registers itself and seeks permission to conduct its activities. Why are they afraid of Indian laws and the Constitution? Why so secretive?” Kharge had said. He also questioned how an “unregistered organisation” could be allowed to hold large-scale marches across the country and pointed out that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was reportedly given an Advanced Security Liaison (ASL) cover, typically reserved for the Prime Minister and select Union Ministers.
Responding to Kharge’s criticism, Bhagwat had remarked, “Many things are not registered. Even Hindu dharma is not registered."
The BJP has now linked Kharge’s earlier comments to what it calls the Congress government’s “selective outrage” over religious or organisational activities, demanding clarity on how the airport prayers were permitted within a high-security area.
