Dharwad:The Dharwad Bench of the Karnataka High Court is hearing the state government’s appeal challenging a single-judge bench’s interim stay on a government order that mandated prior state permission for private individuals or organizations to hold meetings, events, or programs on government-owned buildings, halls, parks, roads, playgrounds, or other public assets.

The hearing is being conducted before the Division Bench of Justice Shankar Ganapati Pandit and Justice Geetha K.B.

Current Arguments Advocate General (AG) for the State: “We are not talking about people walking or jogging in parks.”

“The petitioners are not asking to walk in the park — they want to conduct classes/teachings there.”

“The court must examine what exactly the petitioners are seeking.”

“Parks are built for recreation, fresh air, and physical activities — not for holding seminars or discourses.”

“If they want to conduct such programs, they can book a community hall.”​​Sun Hat​​ for Men Women, Breathable Summer Hat for Travel, Hiking, Gardening, Sun Hats for Men​​ & Round Sun Cap for Hiking,

Case Details- Core Issue: The government order required mandatory prior approval from the state for any private event/meeting on public or government property.

Single-Judge Order: A single-judge bench of the High Court had stayed the order, viewing it as an overreach on the rights of private entities and a potential violation of constitutional freedoms (Articles 19(1)(a) & 19(1)(b)).

State’s Appeal: The government has filed a review petition before a Division Bench at the Dharwad Bench, seeking to vacate the stay.Also Read; Objection to Internal Reservation Decision: Karnataka High Court Issues Notice to State Government

Intent Behind the Government Order To prevent misuse, damage, or deviation from the original purpose of public assets.

However, the single-judge bench held that the blanket mandate infringes on private organizations’ rights.

Current Status:

The Division Bench is actively hearing the state’s appeal. A final decision on whether prior permission remains mandatory for private events on government property is pending.