Nagpur, India – In a significant address on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat touched upon a range of global and national issues. His remarks included insights on the Israel-Hamas conflict, violence in Manipur, preparations for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir event, and a call for unity ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Bhagwat also critiqued the impact of cultural Marxism on society and praised India’s role in the G20 Summit.
Bhagwat’s Perspective on Israel-Hamas Conflict
Mohan Bhagwat expressed his concerns regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. He emphasized that finding a solution to such events, akin to the strife in Ukraine or the Gaza Strip, has proven to be elusive. Addressing the RSS Dussehra rally in Nagpur, Bhagwat also reacted to the recent violence in Manipur.
He noted, “It is only natural to safeguard India’s identity and the pride of the Hindu society. It’s no surprise that in a troubled world, India is expected to rise with a new perspective rooted in its core principles, meeting the contemporary needs and challenges of the world.” Bhagwat highlighted that the world is grappling with crises stemming from religious fundamentalism, arrogance, and fanaticism. He stressed that conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza, driven by clashes of interests and extremism, have remained unresolved.
Manipur Violence and the Role of External Forces
Commenting on the violence in Manipur, Bhagwat raised questions about the sponsorship of the communal violence in the northeastern state. He attributed the precarious situation in the region to external forces. Bhagwat observed, “Meitei and Kuki communities have coexisted for many years. It’s a border state. Who benefits from such separatism and internal conflicts? External forces also stand to gain from whatever is happening. In these incidents, were people from outside involved?”
While addressing the RSS Dussehra rally in Nagpur, Bhagwat accused certain elements of misusing the alleged cultural Marxism and awakened entities to undermine the country’s education and culture.
Preparations for Ayodhya Ram Mandir Event
Bhagwat shared his views on the forthcoming installation of Lord Ram’s idol at the Ayodhya temple on January 22. He urged people to celebrate the occasion by organizing programs in temples across the country. On the situation in Manipur, the RSS Chief questioned, “Who has escalated the conflict in Manipur? It’s not a matter of unrest; it’s being orchestrated.
Does anyone have an interest in exploiting the unrest and instability in Manipur? Does South-East Asia’s geopolitics play a role in these incidents?” Bhagwat stated that when peace prevails, one can witness various events. It is essential to work without agitation and maintain tranquility. Bhagwat also added, “The three elements – dedication to the motherland, pride in our ancestors, and a shared culture – unite us into one nation. Even those who follow religions outside India should adhere to these elements.”
Bhagwat’s Call for Unity Ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha Elections
Mohan Bhagwat urged people to be vigilant and strive for unity in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He emphasized the importance of voting with a focus on the nation’s unity, integrity, identity, and development. Bhagwat called attention to the divisive narratives and the use of toolkits that incite violence and sow distrust among communities.
He stated, “Those who advocate unity cannot ignore the fact that all problems must be resolved before thinking about unity. We need to work with urgency and without agitation to address these incidents.” He added that three elements – devotion to the motherland, pride in ancestors, and a shared culture transcending language, region, religion, and caste – create the nation’s fabric. Those who reside outside India and follow different faiths should also adhere to these principles.
Critique of Cultural Marxism and its Impact on Society
Bhagwat expressed concern about the impact of what he referred to as cultural Marxism and woke elements on India’s education, culture, morality, dignity, and discipline. He suggested that these elements misuse their influence in media, education, and other domains to undermine social structure, ethics, culture, dignity, and discipline. He emphasized that India’s unity and development depend on adhering to the three core principles of dedication to the motherland, pride in ancestors, and a shared culture, transcending diversities.
Praise for India’s Role in the G20 Summit
Bhagwat praised India’s successful organization of the G20 Summit and its diplomatic efforts to include the African Union as a member. He commended India’s genuine goodwill and diplomatic acumen, stating that the successful organization of the G20 Summit has firmly established India as a leading nation on the global stage.