Political Row Escalates as Karnataka Issues 2026 Permanent Residence Certificates

The announcement of Karnataka’s 2026 Permanent Residence Certificate (PRC) scheme has ignited a fresh political clash between the state’s Congress‑led administration and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Supporters claim the PRC will simplify access to subsidies, housing, and educational benefits for citizens who have lived in the state for an extended period. Home Minister Priyank Khadage reiterated that the government is merely exercising its statutory powers to improve public service delivery.

Critics, however, argue that the certificate could be weaponised to grant privileges to undocumented migrants, thereby compromising internal security. BJP leader Shobha Karandlaje appealed to the central Home Ministry, questioning the legal basis of the policy and warning of possible constitutional breaches.

Both sides remain entrenched, with Congress insisting the move is an administrative necessity, while the BJP frames it as a threat to national integrity and the uniformity of Indian citizenship.