RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Advocates for Consensus-Based Uniform Civil Code
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, speaking at an outreach program in Mumbai, stated that a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) should be implemented by building confidence among all sections of society to unify the country. He highlighted the example of Uttarakhand, which published a draft bill, received three lakh suggestions, and passed it after detailed discussions.
Emphasis on Unity and Consensus
"If a code is brought in such a way, then it is good. Create consensus amongst the people before bringing in the UCC," Bhagwat said on the second day of the RSS program at Worli's Nehru Centre. He stressed that the UCC must not lead to differences, noting that India preserves unity amid diversity, a principle that should guide such laws.
Remarks on Hindutva and Religious Flourishing
These comments followed his earlier statement that Islam and Christianity have flourished in India due to the "inherent Hindu spirit" in the country's ethos, despite theological differences. He urged proclaiming Hindutva identity as one nation and one culture during the opening day of the two-day Vyakhyanmala event, part of RSS's centenary year celebrations.
Political and Ideological Insights
During an audience interaction, Bhagwat linked BJP's "achche din" (good days) to RSS's efforts, not vice versa. He credited RSS's commitment to the Ram temple movement for benefiting its supporters, attributing RSS's success to volunteer hard work and ideological dedication.
Call for Global Hindu Unity and Bharat Ratna
Bhagwat called for global Hindu unity to eliminate dependence on external forces for rights and issues worldwide. He also advocated for the Bharat Ratna award for Hindutva ideologue Veer Savarkar, stating it would enhance the honor's prestige, though Savarkar already rules millions of hearts.
Population Policy and Demographic Concerns
Addressing population issues, Bhagwat reiterated a three-child policy for a healthy population rate, citing studies that suggest it as a norm to stop decline. He noted India's total fertility rate at 2.1, balanced by states like Bihar, and expressed concern over Hindu population decrease due to conversion and illegal immigration.
Stance on Conversion and Immigration
He condemned forced or inducement-based conversions, advocating for "ghar wapsi" (return home) as a response, while accepting voluntary conversions. On illegal immigration, he supported the government's "detect and deport" policy and urged public vigilance in reporting cases and avoiding employment of such individuals.
Economic and Cultural Perspectives
Bhagwat emphasized the importance of providing work to India's large population and respecting farm labor. On Ayurveda, he called for more practitioners and grassroots efforts to flourish, contrasting it with allopathy's quick relief. He praised India for fulfilling Paris Agreement promises on climate change, criticizing the West for environmental exploitation.
Bollywood Presence and Political Reactions
The event saw attendance from Bollywood celebrities like Salman Khan, Karan Johar, and Shilpa Shetty, prompting Bhagwat to remark that such a response wouldn't have occurred 20 years ago. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut questioned if this signaled broader Muslim inclusion in RSS activities, seeking clarification.
