RSS Chief Calls for Unity and Self-Reliance Amidst Emerging Threats
Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the RSS, called for unity and self-reliance among Indians to confront both internal and external threats. Speaking at a training program in Nagpur, he addressed issues such as modern warfare, terrorism, and forced conversions. Bhagwat emphasized the importance of mutual understanding in politics following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and highlighted the need for India to enhance its security capabilities. He condemned forced conversions and reiterated the significance of societal unity. The event also featured tribal leader Arvind Netam, who supported the RSS's efforts against forced conversions and called for government action on related issues. Bhagwat's remarks underscored the necessity for a cohesive national response to emerging challenges.
| Jun 6, 2025, 12:05 IST
A Call for Unity and Preparedness
On Thursday, Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the RSS, urged Indians to remain united and self-reliant in the face of both external and internal threats. Speaking at the conclusion of the Vikas Varg-2 training program for RSS workers in Nagpur, he addressed issues ranging from modern warfare and terrorism to internal strife and forced conversions.
He highlighted the dangers posed by ideological divisions, stating, "As long as the two-nation theory persists and dual narratives continue, the nation will remain at risk." Bhagwat emphasized that the social fabric of India continues to be challenged. "Warfare has evolved. Technology has changed. Yet, the truth reveals who stands for the nation," he remarked.
Bhagwat pointed out the increasing relevance of cyber warfare and hybrid warfare in today's world, stressing the need for India to enhance its capabilities. He stated, "We do not consider anyone our enemy. However, we must be prepared. Self-reliance is the only way forward."
During his address, Bhagwat also commented on the political understanding that emerged following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent actions taken by India. He referred to Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), and noted the public's outrage following the killing of tourists on April 22, demanding justice and action.
He reiterated the importance of unity in society, condemning forced conversions. Bhagwat stated, "Forced conversion is violence. While we do not oppose voluntary conversion, we stand against coercion and inducements. Telling people their ancestors were wrong is an insult. We oppose such practices."
Bhagwat acknowledged the presence of tribal leader and former Union Minister Arvind Netam at the event, affirming, "We stand with you in the fight against forced conversions." He also referenced the military actions taken after the Pahalgam attack, highlighting the courage of decision-makers for the nation. "The response to the heinous attack in Pahalgam showcased the valor of our armed forces and the resolve of the administration," he added.
The RSS chief emphasized that the political class demonstrated mutual understanding, and society conveyed a message of unity, which should be sustained. He stressed the need for India to achieve self-reliance in security matters, subtly addressing adversaries without naming Pakistan. He remarked, "Those who cannot win a direct fight with India seek to bleed our nation through countless wounds and hybrid warfare." He drew a parallel to World War II, recalling how Hitler bombed London, hoping for British surrender.
In response, Prime Minister Winston Churchill rallied the nation, asserting that the British would fight on land and sea. Bhagwat referenced this moment, stating that Churchill recognized society as the true lion, with him merely roaring on its behalf. He noted that individual gains can sometimes harm others, and a lack of mutual understanding can lead to discontent. He emphasized that no group or class should come into conflict with another in the national interest.
Bhagwat cautioned against impulsive actions, unnecessary debates, or taking the law into one's own hands, stating that such behavior is not in the nation's interest. He recalled the time when India was not free, and the British rulers promoted division and supported disruptive elements, forcing the common people into conflict. However, he noted that today, the government operates under the Constitution. He warned against inflammatory rhetoric used for personal gain.
He asserted, "Our roots lie in unity, not division." Bhagwat further stated that despite speaking different languages and following various customs, unity transcends all differences. He argued that the notion of ethnic divisions among Indians is a misguided idea propagated by British colonial rule. Arvind Netam, a tribal leader who served in the cabinet, attended the RSS training camp's closing ceremony as the chief guest.
The 25-day training camp, known as Vikas Varg II, saw participation from 840 volunteers from across the country. It commenced on May 12 at the Dr. Hedgewar Smriti Mandir in Nagpur. Netam, hailing from Chhattisgarh, remarked that no state government has seriously addressed the issue of forced conversions. He expressed, "I believe the RSS is the only organization that can assist us in this area."
Netam urged the RSS to pressure the central government to formulate a plan of action post-naxalism to prevent the resurgence of this issue. He pointed out that no government has implemented the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, or PESA. He stated, "The central government remains silent and is even aiding industrialists." The PESA Act aims to ensure self-governance in tribal areas through village assemblies, empowering them to manage resources and make decisions related to their communities.
Sat,21 Jun 2025
Indian Army Celebrates International Yoga Day with Enthusiasm
Sat,21 Jun 2025
Bollywood Icons Unite at Special Screening of Aamir Khan's Film
Sat,24 Sep 2022
UK pound sterling falls to a 37-year low as recession looms
Fri,20 Jun 2025
Poonam Pandey's Bold Beach Post Sparks Controversy Again!
Fri,20 Jun 2025