Did Rashid Alvi Warn the Government After Mohan Bhagwat's 'External Interference' Remarks?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rashid Alvi stresses the importance of national security vigilance.
- Mohan Bhagwat's comments are seen as a warning to the government.
- Concerns over regional instability are rising.
- Alvi questions the Bharat Ratna criteria for past supporters of the British government.
- The RSS has historical ties with the British during India's independence struggle.
New Delhi, Oct 2 (NationPress) Senior Congress figure Rashid Alvi responded on Thursday to Mohan Bhagwat's comments, highlighting the necessity for increased vigilance and empowerment concerning national security. He asserted that Bhagwat's remarks represent the Sangh's attempt to steer the Centre toward the correct path.
This statement followed Bhagwat's observations during the RSS centenary celebrations, where he expressed anxiety over the escalating instability in neighboring countries, citing regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal due to widespread public dissatisfaction.
Bhagwat cautioned that these occurrences emphasize the need for vigilance and self-reflection within India.
He stated, "There are unconstitutional elements within the country aiming to destabilize it. However, these issues will be addressed. Society and the administration should now focus on the development of the region (Kashmir)."
In response to Bhagwat's comments, Alvi told IANS, "I believe he has, to some extent, spoken correctly that when such situations are prevailing all around the country, we must remain alert, and even more than us, the Government of India must remain vigilant. I think the RSS chief has cautioned the Government of India, urging them to stay on the right path; otherwise, situations like those in Nepal and Bangladesh could occur within India."
Regarding BJP Minority Morcha chief Jamal Siddiqui's appeal to President Droupadi Murmu for a Bharat Ratna for RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar, Alvi described it as an effort by Siddiqui "to appease the RSS and the BJP."
He questioned, "What are the criteria for the Bharat Ratna? Can it be awarded to those who supported the British government? Can it be given to individuals who were not involved in the struggle for India's independence?"
The Congress leader contended that the RSS has a 25-year history of siding with the British government.
"The entire world knows this. They were not prominent during the Salt March. In 1942, when Mahatma Gandhi and others were imprisoned, the RSS stood outside, assuring the British of their support. If such individuals were to receive the Bharat Ratna, it would be an affront to freedom fighters," Alvi concluded.