Congress criticises PM Modi’s remarks on RSS
Congress on Wednesday sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for praising the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during its centenary celebrations, alleging that the organisation sided with the British during India’s freedom struggle. The party posted a video of its president Mallikarjun Kharge asking, “Tell us how many of your people (RSS) went to jail, and how many were hanged by the British?”
In its statement, Congress claimed that while the entire nation rose against the British during the Quit India movement of 1942, RSS allegedly aligned with the imperial authorities to suppress the agitation. The party asserted that Congress, socialists, communists, and other revolutionary organisations were repeatedly banned and faced severe repression by the colonial regime. In contrast, it said, RSS volunteers were never imprisoned, allowing them to operate freely and influence public opinion.
Congress accuses RSS of fostering divisions
The party went on to label RSS as a “communal and hateful organisation” and criticised its influence over governance. “It is our country’s misfortune that workers of an organisation that has historically advocated Manusmriti over the Constitution are directly running the government. How can we expect social, political, and economic justice from them?” the statement read.
Congress further alleged that even decades after independence, the RSS’s agenda remained power-centric, focused on igniting Hindu-Muslim tensions, capturing institutions, and spreading hatred. “If it is said that RSS is the root of most problems in the country, it would not be an exaggeration,” the party said.
The statement highlighted what it described as the misuse of power by the organisation, accusing it of “selling out the country” while continuing to shape narratives that divide communities. Congress argued that addressing the RSS’s influence could resolve more than half of the country’s socio-political problems.
Context: PM Modi’s praise of RSS
The criticism comes in response to PM Modi’s remarks at a function commemorating RSS’s centenary, where he lauded the organisation for its social service, national unity, and commitment to eliminating untouchability and caste discrimination. Modi had also emphasised RSS’s role in nation-building and its participation in India’s freedom struggle, drawing praise for its century-long contributions.
Conclusion
The exchange between Congress and the ruling government reflects the enduring political contention over RSS’s historical role and contemporary influence in India. While the government highlights RSS’s social initiatives and nationalist service, Congress maintains that its past association with British authorities and ongoing communal agenda remain points of concern for the nation’s democratic and social fabric.
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