RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Clarifies Organization's Role and Misconceptions
Mohan Bhagwat Addresses Misunderstandings About RSS
On Friday, Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasized that despite wearing uniforms and engaging in physical training, the RSS should not be mistaken for a paramilitary organization. Speaking at a gathering of intellectuals, he stated that the RSS aims to unite society and cultivate essential virtues to prevent India from falling under foreign domination again.
He remarked, "We wear uniforms, conduct marches, and practice drills. However, if someone perceives this as a paramilitary group, it is a misunderstanding." Bhagwat highlighted that the RSS is a unique organization that is not easily comprehensible.
He cautioned against trying to understand the RSS through the lens of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), calling it a significant error. This misunderstanding also extends to those who attempt to grasp the RSS by looking at Vidya Bharati.
Bhagwat pointed out that a false narrative is being constructed against the RSS. He noted, "Nowadays, people do not delve deep for accurate information. Instead of reaching reliable sources, they often rely on Wikipedia, which is not always accurate. Those who seek trustworthy sources will find the correct information about the RSS."
He stressed the importance of clarifying the RSS's role and objectives due to these misconceptions. During his nationwide tour commemorating the organization's centenary, he mentioned that the common belief is that the RSS emerged as a reaction or opposition, which is not the case.
The RSS leader asserted, "The organization was not formed in response to anything, nor does it compete with anyone." He elaborated that the British were not the first to invade India, stating that a few outsiders, who were inferior in every aspect to Indians, managed to defeat them repeatedly.
He questioned, "What guarantees our freedom today? We need to reflect on why this has happened repeatedly." Bhagwat urged society to rise above selfishness and understand itself better. According to him, if society stands united with values and virtues, the country's future will undoubtedly improve.
He also mentioned that the RSS's financial situation is stable now and that it does not rely on external funding or donations, recalling the economic challenges faced by the organization over the past century.
In conclusion, Bhagwat invited people to join a local RSS branch to gain a better understanding of the organization. He stated, "I have shared my thoughts about the RSS. If you want to understand, come and see for yourself. If you don't fully trust my words, that's fine. The best way to understand is to experience it firsthand. Just like tasting a spoonful of sugar will tell you how sweet it is."