Is RSS Really a Cancer? Priyank Kharge's Bold Claim on BJP's Superficial Affection

Bengaluru, July 2 (NationPress) After announcing that Congress intends to impose a ban on RSS once it assumes power at the Centre, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge launched a further offensive against the organization on Wednesday, labeling it a 'cancer' and asserting that the BJP's affection for it is merely 'superficial'.

Priyank Kharge, who serves as the Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT, is the son of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge.

On Wednesday, Priyank Kharge remarked, 'In light of my statements regarding a potential ban on the RSS, BJP leaders, including state President B.Y. Vijayendra and MLA V. Sunil Kumar, have been making various comments. The BJP must not overlook that there is a remedy for the cancer that is RSS—an organization that jeopardizes national unity, the national anthem, the national flag, and the Constitution—and that remedy resides within the Constitution itself.'

'For BJP leaders, justifying RSS is utterly crucial—to protect their positions and ensure their political future—as they are all attached to Nagpur. Even if they disapprove of it, they are obligated to defend the RSS.'

The minister added, 'The BJP’s affection for the RSS is purely superficial—it exists in their throats, not in their hearts. If their admiration were authentic, BJP leaders would enroll their own children in RSS shakhas instead of schools. None of the children of BJP leaders don khaki shorts and play with sticks at a shakha. Even the BJP recognizes that linking their children with the RSS would jeopardize their futures.'

'If Prime Minister Narendra Modi were to suddenly initiate a campaign like 'Selfie with Shakha' for BJP leaders’ children, even the RSS would comprehend the truth of their allegiance. It would be beneficial if respected Vijayendra and other BJP leaders acknowledged the historical fact that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel banned the RSS, considering it a terrorist organization.'

'Even if one is unafraid of mobs or violence, one must respect the Constitution of this country. Vijayendra, Sunil Kumar—here, the Constitution is the ultimate authority. My challenge to the BJP: As the RSS approaches its centenary, let it enumerate just 10 contributions it has made to the nation over the last 100 years.'

Kharge questioned, 'What has it accomplished to enhance the nation's economy? What initiatives has it undertaken for social reform? What actions has it taken to eradicate inequality and oppression? What programs has it launched for the welfare of the impoverished? How has it contributed to national unity? Those who defend the RSS must explain: Why did the RSS remain absent during the Salt Satyagraha in the freedom struggle? Why did it not join the Quit India Movement and instead ally with the British? Why did it burn copies of the Constitution? Why did it oppose the national flag? Why did it resist hoisting the Tricolour for decades? Where was your so-called powerful organization when the nation engaged in three wars?'

'Donning khaki shorts and wielding sticks does not grant anyone the authority to defy the Constitution—nor does it establish someone as a patriot.'

In response to Priyank Kharge's remarks regarding the RSS ban, state President Vijayendra stated, 'The Congress party's intolerance, animosity, and frustration towards the RSS will not affect the organization in any way. Since the era of Nehru, the RSS has steadfastly endured Congress' threats and assaults. So what significance do immature individuals like Priyank Kharge possess?'