Is RSS' Centenary Celebration an Insult to Mahatma Gandhi?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On Gandhi Jayanti, Udit Raj fiercely criticizes the RSS for celebrating its centenary, calling it a terror organization linked to Gandhi's assassination. As the nation reflects on its history, Raj's remarks ignite a debate on the RSS's relevance and role in modern India. Can we separate ideology from legacy?
Key Takeaways
- Udit Raj condemns RSS as a 'terror organization.'
- The RSS celebrates 100 years amid controversy.
- Criticism highlights ongoing political divides in India.
- RSS's exclusionary practices questioned by Raj.
- Gandhi Jayanti serves as a backdrop for these debates.
New Delhi, Oct 2 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader Udit Raj on Thursday made a pointed critique of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) regarding its centenary celebrations, labeling it a "terror organisation" that fostered the ideology leading to Mahatma Gandhi's assassination. He stated it was "unfortunate" and "insulting" that on Gandhi Jayanti, the celebration of the 'Father of the Nation's' birthday, an "anti-national organisation" was being honored.
The RSS, established by Dr K.B. Hedgewar in 1925, is commemorating a century since its inception. This year's centenary celebration coincides with both Vijayadashami and Gandhi Jayanti.
In an interview with IANS, Raj expressed, "I extend my greetings to the people on Vijayadashami. But it is unfortunate that a terrorist organisation is also being glorified. Those who truly follow the ideals of Lord Ram must be wondering what is happening. The way the organisation of Mahatma Gandhi's assassin is being glorified is deeply saddening."
He further emphasized that the RSS and "its ideology were responsible for the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi."
"Today, October 2, is Gandhi Jayanti, the day we honour the 'Father of the Nation' who brought Independence to the country. It is extremely unfortunate that on his birthday, the centenary of a killer organisation is being celebrated," he added.
Criticizing the release of a commemorative postal stamp and coin to honor the RSS' centenary, Raj remarked, "The violent people are today commemorating the postal stamp and a coin. This is a big insult to Mahatma Gandhi. First, they killed Gandhi ji, and now they are insulting him. There is no role for the RSS in today's time. This is just an effort to remain in power."
Accusing the Sangh of exclusionary practices, Raj stated, "I would like to say that RSS is not for all Hindus. If it were an organisation for the Hindus, then why is its chief always a Brahmin? The chief is never from a backward or Dalit community or a woman. The RSS is anti-national and a terror organisation."
Point of View
I believe it's crucial to approach Udit Raj's statements with an open mind. While his criticism of the RSS raises valid concerns about historical narratives, it also highlights the ongoing political polarization in our country. We must strive for a dialogue that fosters understanding rather than division.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Udit Raj say about the RSS?
Udit Raj criticized the RSS during its centenary celebrations, labeling it a 'terror organization' responsible for Mahatma Gandhi's assassination.
Why is the RSS celebrating its centenary now?
The RSS, founded in 1925, is marking 100 years since its establishment, with this year's celebrations coinciding with Vijayadashami and Gandhi Jayanti.
What does Udit Raj think about the RSS's role today?
Raj argues that the RSS is 'anti-national' and has no place in modern India, emphasizing its exclusionary practices.
How has the RSS responded to these criticisms?
As of now, the RSS has not publicly responded to Udit Raj's specific critiques regarding its centenary celebrations.
What is the significance of Gandhi Jayanti?
Gandhi Jayanti is observed on October 2nd to honor Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's non-violent independence movement.
