New Delhi (Agency): Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has sparked conversations with his recent remarks. He said that India is a “Hindu Rashtra,” which means a Hindu nation. Bhagwat made these comments during the inauguration of a new building for a newspaper in Nagpur, India.
“Hindustan (India) is a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ and this is a fact. Ideologically, all Bharatiyas (Indians) are Hindus and Hindus mean all Bharatiyas. All those who are in Bharat (India) today are related to Hindu culture, Hindu ancestors and Hindu land, nothing other than these,” Bhagwat stated. He further said that some people either do not understand this or have forgotten it due to their “habits and selfishness.”
In addition to discussing the ideological basis of India as a Hindu nation, Bhagwat talked about journalism. He expressed that reporting should be balanced and based on facts, while still “keeping our own ideology intact.” According to him, the ideology he represents is gaining global attention and acceptance. “Everybody has understood this. Some acknowledge it, some do not,” he added.
Bhagwat also spoke on the need for environmental care and an emphasis on “Swadeshi,” which is the concept of using locally-produced goods. He underlined the importance of family values and discipline as well.
The comments from the RSS chief have opened up debates and discussions. RSS is a Hindu nationalist volunteer organization that has a significant influence on Indian politics. The term “Hindu Rashtra” has often been a topic of discussion and debate in Indian society. Some see this term as uniting the country under a single cultural umbrella, while others argue that it may marginalize non-Hindu communities.
The RSS chief’s statements come at a time when India is grappling with multiple social and political issues, including religious tension and environmental concerns. The impact of these comments may be seen in the future debates and policies that concern the identity and ethos of the country.
Bhagwat’s call for fair journalism while maintaining ideological integrity could also affect how media organizations approach reporting in India. This is particularly relevant in the context of the country’s diverse culture, which includes various religious and ethnic groups.