On Monday, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed a gathering in Nagpur, where he critically spoke about the country’s current political climate, Manipur’s situation and the electoral campaigning for the concluded 2024 Lok Sabha election.
Speaking of Sangh’s values, he said, “A true sevak practices restraint while working, and remain detached. There is no arrogance in him about the work he does. Only such a person has the right to be called a sevak, and he further said that “knowing self limitations is the integral aspect of Sangh’s work.”
Mohan Bhagwat : On maintaining dignity in electoral process
In extending the concept of “restraint” to electoral politics, Bhagwat said “it’s a fact that there is competition in electoral politics, which is inherent to democracy. When there are two parties, there is a competition involved between them, but still restraint and integrity is crucial and there’s a dignity to that process which should be followed, and lies must not be used.
“People in elections are being elected to go to the Parliament and run the country by having a mutual agreement, which has been our tradition. Hence, the election should be considered as a healthy competition, where both sides have a fair chance against each other, as opposition is like another side of the same coin, which also must come into light.”
He further said, “The psyche of each individual is different, and it cannot be possible for everyone to have the same opinions, but in a democratic society it’s a consent to reach an agreement despite having different psyches, which is why we consider the “majority of votes.”
He criticized the campaigning process of the parties, saying the approach of campaigning “ was one in which social tensions and suspicion among people has been intensified”. No care was not taken to ensure this doesn’t happen. Without any reason, organisations like the RSS were dragged.” Technology has been misused to the peak to disseminate lies, added Mr. Bhagwat.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat: “I do not call it Virodhi Paksh. I call it Pratipaksh. Pratipaksh is not virodhi”
He further said “The same government NDA is back in power. While it is right that a lot of positive things have happened in the last 10 years as we are progressing in science and technology, arts, culture, economy, it doesn’t mean that we are free of challenges” and now there’s a need to focus on that. He further added environmental preservation must be a feature of development as well.
On the ongoing Manipur situation
“It’s been a year since Manipur has been waiting for peace. The state remained peaceful for the last 10 years, but suddenly, gun culture has increased again. It is important to resolve the conflict as a priority.” RSS Chief said on the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
He further spoke on the urgent need for the preservation of culture in society, and emphasized that certain restraints must be practiced, and not just the government but everyone must be concerned about it. Any type of change first comes in society, and then in management.
Read more : Modi 3.0: Narendra Modi Takes Oath for Third Term as Prime Minister
