Why is the RSS Receiving Praise? Supriya Shrinate Challenges PM's Comments at Centenary Event
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Synopsis
In a bold challenge to Prime Minister Modi's praise for the RSS during its centennial celebration, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate raises critical questions about the organization's historical actions and its current relevance, inviting a deeper discourse on nationalism and representation in India.
Key Takeaways
- RSS's centenary celebration has sparked political debate.
- Modi's praise of the RSS raises questions about historical actions.
- Supriya Shrinate challenges the narrative of the RSS's contributions.
- Concerns about representation and actions during the freedom struggle are highlighted.
- Political discourse continues around unity and diversity in India.
New Delhi, Oct 1 (NationPress) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during its centenary event, commending the organization for its resilience against criticism and for advocating the principle of "nation first," Congress leader Supriya Shrinate raised questions about this commendation.
Shrinate stated to IANS, “Why is the RSS being praised? What merits does Prime Minister Modi find in them for not taking any action during the freedom movement? For their apologies to the British, for reporting on fellow countrymen, or for their suggestions to suppress the freedom struggle? Why should we commend the RSS?”
She elaborated, “Nathuram Godse took the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Should they be honored because Sardar Patel prohibited the RSS? Or due to their burning of images of B.R. Ambedkar? The RSS lacks a place for women, and there has never been a Dalit leader within their ranks. Their leaders collaborated with Jinnah, overseeing administrations in North Bengal during our fight for independence. They have demeaned our national heroes. The RSS is implicated in the bloodshed of Mahatma Gandhi. The Prime Minister appears eager to legitimize the RSS, but history is unequivocal: true patriots fought for India's independence, while others aligned with the RSS.”
In response to PM Modi’s statements regarding India’s “unity in diversity” being jeopardized by infiltrators leading to a “demographic shift,” which he cautioned could threaten “social harmony and internal security,” Shrinate reacted with intensity.
She questioned, “What does the PM truly believe? He has governed for 11 years yet lacks a strategy to address infiltrators. Is an unrecognized group like the RSS equipped to tackle this issue? Each election season, the infiltrator narrative resurfaces. Names have vanished from voter lists in Bihar—do not claim those were infiltrators. The reality is that during the UPA government, more than 22,000 Bangladeshi infiltrators were identified and expelled. Ongoing issues reflect a failure of the Home Ministry. Essentially, PM Modi is acknowledging his own shortcomings,” she conveyed to IANS.
The Prime Minister's comments during the RSS’s centenary celebration echoed sentiments he expressed in his Independence Day address, including the initiation of a 'Demographic Mission' designed to safeguard citizens from infiltrators “taking jobs from youth” and “targeting our sisters and daughters.”
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that every political organization has its supporters and detractors. The RSS, with a century-long history, holds a significant position in India's socio-political landscape. While the Prime Minister's praise highlights a narrative of resilience, it is equally important to examine the criticisms raised by leaders like Supriya Shrinate to foster a balanced discussion on the diverse perspectives that shape our national identity.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Prime Minister Modi say about the RSS?
Prime Minister Modi praised the RSS for its commitment to the principle of 'nation first' during its centenary celebrations, emphasizing its resilience against criticism.
Why did Supriya Shrinate question Modi's praise for the RSS?
Shrinate questioned the basis of Modi's praise, citing historical actions of the RSS during India's freedom struggle and its treatment of national heroes.
What concerns did Shrinate raise about the RSS?
She highlighted the lack of representation of women and Dalits within the RSS and criticized its historical actions, including its association with figures like Nathuram Godse.
