Udupi: Member of Parliament Kota Srinivas Poojary has strongly criticized the Congress party’s continued opposition to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling it historically unfounded and politically motivated. He cited Jawaharlal Nehru’s own actions — inviting RSS to the Republic Day parade after initially attempting to ban it — as evidence of its long-standing national role. He also referenced Dr B.R. Ambedkar, who praised the RSS as being free from caste discrimination.
Poojary asserted that Congress leaders from Indira to Rahul Gandhi have tried and failed to suppress the RSS, and said Priyanka Gandhi’s recent rhetoric will also be ineffective. He urged Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge and G. Parameshwar not to speak lightly about the RSS, and instead visit an RSS shakha to better understand its ethos of nationalism and patriotism.
On the state political front, Poojary pointed to growing instability in the Siddaramaiah government, saying administrative authority is weakening and officials are functioning under the assumption of a leadership change. He warned that delays in resolving power struggles will impact public welfare.
He also criticized the state’s financial management, alleging there’s no budget even for basic needs like shoes and socks in government schools. Accusing the government of relying on donors, he said, “This is not how responsible governance should work.”
Regarding Home Minister Parameshwar’s peace meetings, Poojary questioned the fairness of police action against Hindu activists and warned against misuse of rowdy elements.
He welcomed the High Court’s stay on the closure of Janaushadhi Kendras, stating that access to affordable medicine should not be hindered for political reasons.