RSS doesn't practice Hindutva politics, believes in nation building: Mohan Bhagwat

Mohan Bhagwat said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh does not practice Hindutva politics but works towards building a strong society and nation through individual development. Speaking at a programme marking 100 years of the Sangh, he asserted that its core objective is character-building and social unity rather than political engagement.

Addressing the gathering on the theme “Sangh Yatra – New Horizons, New Dimensions,” Bhagwat said only strong individuals can create a strong society and nation. He emphasised that the Sangh cannot be understood from the outside and described it as a social force that works beyond conventional classifications.

Responding to perceptions about the organisation, he said some view it as a paramilitary body while others consider it a service organisation, but its role transcends such labels. He added that the world now expects India to take up a leadership role once again and called upon people to contribute to national empowerment through social participation.

Stressing unity, Bhagwat said those who work to unite society are Hindus and underscored devotion to the motherland. He remarked that while the world respects power more than truth, power must be exercised with restraint. On issues such as reservation, classification and the uniform civil code, he said society must act with authenticity and harmony, overcoming divisive tendencies.

On women’s participation, Bhagwat stated that women are completely independent and should have 50 per cent representation in governance, not merely 33 per cent. He also highlighted the need for coordinated policy efforts and local participation to conserve Uttarakhand’s rivers and environment.