Mumbai (Maharashtra): Maharashtra Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Abu Azmi on Tuesday reacted to Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s presence at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) centenary event in Mumbai, suggesting that the actor may have attended under pressure.
Speaking to reporters, Azmi claimed that Salman Khan might not have been in a position to refuse an invitation associated with the ruling establishment.
“I understand that Salman Khan is an actor, and he has to live with respect in the country. If people on the ruling side say something, I don’t think Salman Khan has the courage to refuse. He must have gone there under government pressure,” Azmi said.
Salman Khan attended the RSS Mumbai Vyakhyanmala, a two-day lecture series themed “100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons,” held on February 7 and 8 as part of the organisation’s centenary celebrations.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a swipe at Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray over his criticism of the RSS event. Fadnavis suggested that those objecting to the event were doing so because they were not invited.
“My opinion is clear: those who did not receive an invitation feel upset and therefore criticise. People from different sections of society were invited to address questions and misconceptions about the RSS. Many of them said they had no prior connection with the Sangh. Over two days, questions were answered and guidance was provided. Who cares about those who spread anti-Sangh propaganda?” Fadnavis said.
His remarks came after Raj Thackeray criticised RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, alleging that people attended the centenary event out of fear of the Narendra Modi-led government rather than out of admiration.
In a post, Thackeray said attendees did not come out of love for the RSS but due to “fear” of the central government. He also questioned the historical context of linguistic state reorganisation, suggesting that the RSS leadership should reflect on the issue.
The political exchanges have added to the debate surrounding the RSS centenary celebrations in Mumbai.
