Bengaluru— A viral video showing a group of people offering namaz at Terminal-2 of the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has triggered a political controversy in Karnataka, with the opposition BJP questioning the state government’s stance and raising concerns over security and protocol.
The clip, widely circulated on social media, shows a small group performing prayers inside the airport terminal while security personnel stand nearby. The incident has prompted the BJP to demand clarification from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge over whether prior permission was granted for the activity.
“How is this even allowed inside the T2 Terminal of Bengaluru International Airport? Hon’ble Chief Minister @siddaramaiah and Minister @PriyankKharge, do you approve of this?” BJP spokesperson Vijay Prasad wrote on X late Saturday night.
Prasad cited the state’s recent regulations mandating prior approval for religious or public gatherings, a rule that the BJP claims has been selectively enforced to limit activities by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
“Why is it that the government objects when the RSS conducts Patha Sanchalana (route marches) after obtaining permission, but turns a blind eye to prayers being offered inside a high-security airport zone?” he questioned.
The BJP leader further demanded to know whether the act posed a security concern, given the sensitivity of airport areas.
Authorities at Kempegowda International Airport have yet to issue an official statement on the matter, while the state government has not responded to the opposition’s allegations.
The incident has reignited the ongoing debate in Karnataka over religious freedom in public spaces and the alleged double standards in enforcing restrictions on gatherings and expressions of faith.
