RSS chief comments on global reactions to Pahalgam attack

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday, October 2, 2025, said the positions taken by various countries following the Pahalgam terror attack demonstrated the nature and extent of their friendship with India.

Speaking at the RSS’s annual Vijayadashmi rally, which also marked the organisation’s centenary, Bhagwat highlighted the need for heightened vigilance in matters of national security. The RSS was founded on Dussehra (September 27) 1925 in Nagpur by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, a physician from Maharashtra.

Reaction to Pahalgam terror attack

“Even though we maintain friendly relations with other countries, and will continue to do so, when it comes to our security, we need to be more careful, more watchful and stronger,” Bhagwat said. He referred to the attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists crossed the border and killed 26 Indians after checking their religion, and praised India’s response through Operation Sindoor.

“This caused immense pain and anger in the country. Our government made complete preparations and gave a firm rebuttal. In the aftermath, the leadership’s resolve, the valour of our armed forces, and the unity of society were evident,” he added.

He noted that extremist elements had faced government action while society distanced itself after recognising their “hollowness,” asserting that such elements would be controlled and a major hurdle had been removed in the area.


Observations on regional instability

Highlighting unrest in neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, Bhagwat said revolutions often lead to instability. He urged governments to be people-oriented to prevent such chaos and cited B.R. Ambedkar, who described unchecked movements as the “Grammar of Anarchy.”

Bhagwat stressed that lack of schemes ensuring justice, development, goodwill, sensitivity, and strength often leads to the rise of extremist forces. “People who are annoyed by the system’s lethargy tend to seek support from extremist elements. To prevent this, the state and society must work together through initiatives that give people faith in the system,” he said.

Event highlights

The Vijayadashmi rally also celebrated the RSS centenary, with former President Ram Nath Kovind present as the chief guest. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier unveiled a ₹100 coin and commemorative postage stamp for the centenary, marking the first-ever depiction of Bharat Mata on Indian currency.

Conclusion

Bhagwat’s remarks underscore the RSS’s continued focus on national security, societal unity, and vigilance against extremist forces, while emphasising the role of governments and citizens in maintaining stability. The centenary celebrations reflected on the organisation’s century-long engagement in nation-building and societal development.