Trying to understand the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) through the lens of the BJP is a mistake, said RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in Kolkata Sunday.
Addressing the ‘RSS 100 Vyakhyan Mala’, a lecture series as part of the RSS’s centenary celebrations, at Science City in Kolkata, Bhagwat said, “Many people are familiar with the name of the RSS, but they may not understand the work that the organisation actually does.”
“It is important for people to be aware of this work, as it is unique. Even those from abroad come to observe our initiatives and request training so that they can share this knowledge with future generations,” he said.
“There is no other organisation like the Sangh. Therefore, trying to understand the Sangh by comparing it with others leads to misunderstandings. We function in uniform, and if someone, on seeing that, assumes it to be a paramilitary organisation, that would be incorrect. If one wants to understand the Sangh, one has to look at the Sangh itself and it is an organisation that cannot be easily understood merely by observation,” he added.
The RSS chief said there are many false narratives and misinformation being deliberately spread about the organisation, especially as it continues to expand its influence.
“The Sangh has no enemies, but many incorrect narratives are being propagated by various people. As the Sangh grows, some fear that their vested interests will be threatened. While many are familiar with the name of the Sangh, they often do not understand its work, leading to misunderstandings,” Bhagwat said.
“We do not want to force anyone to accept the Sangh. People are free to form their own opinions, but those opinions should be based on facts rather than imagination or secondary sources,” he added.
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The RSS chief said the primary goal is for India to thrive on the global stage. He said the Sangh is dedicated to the development and protection of Hindu society. “Since the time of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, efforts to awaken society have been ongoing. We need to rediscover and reconnect with our forgotten roots.”
‘Sangh not a competitor to anyone’
Bhagwat said the Sangh is not a competitor, reaction, or opposition to anything; rather, it exists to fulfil a purpose, not to destroy. He also noted that the country’s progress will not rely on political parties, and the future of the nation depends on unity among its people.
“In the past, people used to think that we in the RSS only played with sticks, but now they recognise our importance. Everything we do is for the benefit of the country, not to divide it or create a separate organisation.”
Bhagwat said that Sangh volunteers can operate independently and pursue personal activities, but they remain united. He said, “The Sangh does not exert remote or direct control over its members. What authority do we have to impose control? Our work is based on friendship. The narratives suggesting that we control or engage in backseat driving are incorrect.”
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Bhagwat said there are 6,75,000 RSS shakhas in India. “There are 60,000 mandals, and we have reached 25 per cent of them. Out of the 45,000 colonies in cities, we have reached 50 per cent. We must gather all the good people of Hindu Samaj. There are always 40 per cent more good individuals than undesirable ones in society.” He said the Sangh will create an environment where the good society can act as a catalyst for social change.
On Thursday, the RSS chief began his four-day visit to Bengal, starting in Siliguri in the Darjeeling district. After Sunday’s programme, he is reportedly scheduled to visit Mumbai.
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