RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Calls for Public Vigilance Against Infiltrators
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat issued a strong warning on Sunday regarding the presence of "infiltrators" within the country, emphasizing that their "language" serves as a critical identifier. Speaking at a two-day lecture series titled '100 Years Of Sangh Journey - New Horizons' in Mumbai, the Hindu organization leader did not specify any particular language for this identification but stressed the need for heightened awareness.
Support for Government's Voter List Revision
Bhagwat expressed approval for the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of voter lists conducted by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government in poll-bound states. This exercise has faced criticism from opposition parties, who allege it leads to the deletion of legitimate voters. However, Bhagwat defended the process, stating it helps uncover non-citizens who are automatically excluded during such revisions.
"The government has a lot to do regarding infiltration. They have to detect and deport. This wasn't happening until now, but it has started little by little, and it will gradually increase," he remarked. "When the census or the SIR is conducted, many people come to light who are not citizens of this country; they are automatically excluded from the process."
Urging Public Action and Reporting
Bhagwat further urged citizens to take an active role in detecting infiltrators and reporting them to authorities. He outlined specific steps for the public to follow:
- Detect suspected infiltrators based on linguistic cues.
- Report them to the police for investigation and monitoring.
- Avoid providing employment to foreigners, reserving jobs for citizens.
"But we can do one thing: we can work on detection. Their language gives them away. We should detect them and report them to the appropriate authorities," he advised. "We should inform the police that we suspect these people are foreigners, and they should investigate and keep an eye on them, and we will also keep an eye on them. We will not give employment to any foreigner. If someone is from our country, we will give them employment, but not to foreigners. You should be a little more vigilant and aware."
Political Context and Reactions
The issue of infiltration has become a contentious political flashpoint, particularly in states like West Bengal and Assam. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has challenged the Supreme Court over the SIR, labeling it a tool of harassment. In contrast, the Election Commission maintains that the revision is essential for removing illegal voters, including alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators—a point the BJP has used to accuse Banerjee of negligence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly criticized the state leadership in Bengal, arguing that while other nations enforce strict measures against illegal residents, political considerations in Bengal are jeopardizing citizens and undermining the future of the state's youth. This debate highlights the deepening political divide over national security and citizenship issues in India.
