BHOPAL: In remarks that are likely to reignite debates about the relationship between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday cautioned that trying to understand the Sangh by looking at the BJP would be a “huge mistake.” Speaking at a gathering in Bhopal as part of the Sangh’s centenary-related activities, he emphasised that the RSS is a unique social organisation and cannot be reduced to a political party or a paramilitary body.
Bhagwat, who is scheduled to address two additional sessions on Saturday as part of the centenary celebrations, said that misconceptions about the Sangh have emerged over the years, largely due to surface-level understanding and reliance on inaccurate sources of information.
RSS: Not a Political or Paramilitary Organisation
The RSS, widely acknowledged as the parent organisation of the Jana Sangh and its successor, the BJP, has often been viewed in political discourse through the lens of its affiliate party. Bhagwat stressed that such an approach is misleading and fails to capture the true essence of the Sangh.
“If you want to understand the Sangh by looking at the BJP, it will be a huge mistake. The same mistake will happen if you try to understand it by looking at Vidya Bharti [an RSS-affiliated educational organisation],” Bhagwat said, as reported by news agency PTI.
He elaborated that the Sangh’s purpose is social and cultural in nature, aiming to unify society, instil values, and build discipline among citizens to ensure that India never faces foreign domination again. He pointed out that while RSS members wear uniforms, conduct marches, and perform stick exercises, interpreting this as evidence of a paramilitary structure would be incorrect.
“The Sangh is not a reaction or opposition to anything. It is not competing with anyone either,” Bhagwat asserted. He said that a “false narrative” has developed around the organisation, which often distorts its role and objectives.
On Misunderstandings and Information Sources
Bhagwat criticised the modern tendency to rely on superficial sources, particularly online platforms, for information about the Sangh.
“Nowadays, people do not go deep to gather the right information. They do not go to the origin. They go to Wikipedia. Everything is not true there. Those who go to reliable sources will get to know about the Sangh,” he said.
He added that the centenary year of the RSS provides an opportunity to explain the organisation’s true role and purpose to the wider public. Bhagwat has undertaken visits across the country to engage directly with communities, highlight the Sangh’s social initiatives, and correct widespread misunderstandings.
Advocacy for Swadeshi and Self-Reliance
During the gathering, Bhagwat also spoke about the importance of Swadeshi products and the concept of ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant India). He linked self-reliance to self-pride (‘Atma Gaurav’), stating that citizens should consciously buy and use goods made in India to support domestic employment and production.
However, he clarified that embracing Swadeshi does not entail complete isolation from global trade. Essential imports, such as medicines not produced domestically, should continue, but international trade should be conducted on India’s own terms, without succumbing to external pressures or tariff-induced coercion.
“Only buy and use what is made in your land and which provides employment to people of your country. Trade should never be carried out under pressure or fear of tariffs,” he said.
The Broader Message
Bhagwat’s remarks come at a time when the RSS is celebrating 100 years since its founding, a milestone accompanied by nationwide programs, educational initiatives, and public interactions aimed at presenting the Sangh as a social and cultural organisation rather than a political or paramilitary entity.
By distancing the Sangh from its political affiliates and advocating for self-reliance through Swadeshi, Bhagwat sought to frame the organisation as a vision-driven institution, focused on societal unity, cultural revival, and national development.
Analysts note that the chief’s emphasis on separating the RSS identity from the BJP is likely aimed at both internal consolidation and external perception management, as the organisation navigates its centenary celebrations amid ongoing public scrutiny and political discourse.
Key Takeaways from Bhagwat’s Address
- RSS and BJP are distinct: Viewing the Sangh through the lens of the BJP or other affiliates like Vidya Bharti misrepresents its nature.
- Social mission over political rivalry: The Sangh is dedicated to unifying society, instilling discipline, and fostering values—not reacting against political opponents.
- Clarifying misconceptions: A reliance on incomplete or inaccurate information, such as online sources, has contributed to misunderstandings about the RSS.
- Promotion of Swadeshi and self-reliance: Citizens should prioritize Indian-made goods, while participating in international trade under India’s terms.
- Centenary emphasis: The 100-year celebrations are a platform to articulate the organisation’s philosophy, role, and societal contributions.
In conclusion, Mohan Bhagwat’s address in Bhopal reinforced the RSS’s long-stated position as a social and cultural organisation distinct from its political affiliations, while promoting Swadeshi values and national self-reliance. The centenary year offers the Sangh a chance to clarify its objectives, counter misinformation, and present its vision for a unified, disciplined, and self-reliant India.
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