Bhopal (Agency): A heated argument has erupted between the opposition Congress and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after a photograph emerged showing government officials attending a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) function in Madhya Pradesh’s Satna district.
The photograph captures Satna District Collector Anurag Verma and Satna Municipal Corporation Commissioner Rajesh Shahi participating in a prayer during an RSS program held on June 11. State Congress media department chairman KK Mishra, who shared the picture, expressed concerns about the officials’ involvement in the RSS event and their subsequent salute to the RSS flag. Mishra claimed that such behavior raises doubts about the officials’ impartiality in the upcoming Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls scheduled for later this year.
Congress Rajya Sabha member Vivek Tankha demanded that the Election Commission of India ensure that such officials are kept away from any involvement in the preparations for the Assembly polls. However, BJP state secretary Rajneesh Agrawal countered these allegations, stating that there was no violation of the code of conduct by the officials. He emphasized that participating in an RSS event is neither illegal nor unconstitutional, and it does not violate any code of conduct. Agrawal defended the RSS as a democratic, social, and cultural organization operating within constitutional arrangements. He criticized the Congress for harboring hatred towards the RSS and denied any basis for action against the officials.
The event depicted in the photograph was the Sangh Shiksha Varg program held on June 11, where Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Vice President Achchhelal Kushwaha served as the chief guest. Satna Collector Verma clarified that his presence at the program was in accordance with protocol since several dignitaries, including ministers, were in attendance.
The Congress has expressed its intention to lodge a complaint with the Department of Personnel and Training at the Central Government. The clash between the Congress and the BJP reflects their differing perspectives on the participation of government officials in events organized by the RSS.
While the Congress raises concerns about impartiality and adherence to civil servant conduct, the BJP defends the officials’ participation, highlighting the democratic and cultural nature of the RSS. The political debate surrounding this issue may continue as the Assembly polls draw nearer.
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