RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Clarifies Leadership Succession and Policy Stances
In a significant interaction marking the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) centenary year in Mumbai, chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed key organizational and societal issues, including his own tenure, reservations, and demographic concerns.
Leadership and Succession in the RSS
Bhagwat, who recently turned 75, stated that he will step down from his role as Sarsanghchalak if the RSS requests it. "It is generally believed that after 75 years, one should work without any official position. I have informed the RSS of this, but the Sangh has asked me to continue my work," he explained. He emphasized that the selection of the RSS chief is determined by the organization based on merit and candidate availability, without any caste or community criteria.
"The head of the RSS is not selected through an election process. What is certain is that whoever is appointed as the RSS chief will be a Hindu, regardless of caste," Bhagwat said. He added that being from a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe is neither a disqualification nor does being a Brahmin automatically qualify someone for the position.
Stance on Reservations and Caste Discrimination
Bhagwat expressed strong support for reservations for SC/ST communities, stating they should continue as long as caste discrimination exists in society. "When one section struggles, you must lend a helping hand to pull them out of poverty and backwardness," he remarked. He argued that benefits should not be withdrawn until beneficiaries voluntarily relinquish them, noting that historical discrimination justifies extended support.
"But if a certain section has been subjected to discrimination for 2,000 years, what is wrong with extending the benefits for 200 years? Why shouldn’t we think this way?" he questioned, highlighting the need for ongoing debate on the issue.
Demographic Recommendations and Family Planning
Reflecting on concerns about the decline of the Hindu population, Bhagwat recommended that every family have three children. "This is not only to address population decline but also to ensure the family’s overall health," he said, citing support from population scientists and psychologists. He added that having three children helps develop ego management skills, benefiting individuals later in life.
Views on Religious Conversions and Infiltration
Bhagwat addressed religious conversions, stating that while voluntary conversions are acceptable, those through coercion or allurement are concerning. He called for expediting 'ghar wapsi' (homecoming) efforts and emphasized the need to detect and deport infiltrators to protect citizens' rights and employment.
Support for Uniform Civil Code and Anti-Corruption Measures
Commenting on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Bhagwat said, "It is good. While we oppose diversity, UCC will ensure the nation’s unity and integrity." He stressed the importance of implementation through due process and consultations to ensure voluntary acceptance. On corruption, he admitted it is a significant issue requiring collective effort and a change in mindset, beyond just laws.
Critique of Caste-Based Politics
Bhagwat criticized political parties for promoting caste-based politics to secure votes, urging people to recognize and reject such polarization. "If people recognise this and refuse to engage in caste polarisation, it will render politicians’ efforts futile. Ultimately, they are merely focused on votes," he concluded.
