Latest news with #RashtriyaSwayamsevakSangh
Hans India
14 hours ago
- Politics
- Hans India
RSS Leader Booked for ‘Inflammatory Speech' as BJP Alleges Crackdown on Hindu Voices in Coastal Karnataka
Mangaluru/Udupi: A case has been registered against senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) functionary Dr. Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat for allegedly delivering an inflammatory speech in Dakshina Kannada district, a move that has triggered sharp political reactions and accusations of targeted action against Hindu activists in Karnataka's coastal belt. According to Bantwal Rural Police, the incident occurred on May 12, during a condolence meeting held at Madwa Palace Convention Hall in Kavalapadur village. The gathering was organised in memory of a youth recently killed in Mangaluru city limits. Police said Dr. Bhat addressed a crowd of around 500 people, allegedly making remarks that could disturb public peace and foster communal enmity. A case was registered on June 2 under Section 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the equivalent of promoting enmity between groups under the Indian Penal Code. Police have indicated that further legal action is under consideration. BJP Alleges Political Vendetta The case against Dr. Bhat comes amid a spate of administrative actions in the region that have drawn fire from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has accused the Congress-led state government of selectively targeting Sangh Parivar leaders and Hindu activists. Former Dakshina Kannada MP and senior BJP leader Nalin Kumar Kateel called the FIR against Dr. Bhat 'a blatant misuse of police machinery' to suppress dissenting Hindu voices. 'This is not just about Prabhakar Bhat. From Suhas Shetty's condolence meet to externment notices for others, this government is systematically silencing those who speak for Hindus,' he said. He also drew parallels with previous incidents, including the killing of BJP Yuva Morcha leader Praveen Nettaru, and criticised the state for allegedly failing to address violence against Hindu activists. Externment Notice to Arun Puthila In a separate but related development, Hindutva leader Arun Kumar Puthila from Puttur has been served an externment hearing notice by the Assistant Commissioner of the Puttur subdivision. Authorities are reportedly considering relocating him from Dakshina Kannada to Shahabad in Kalaburagi district. The hearing is scheduled for June 6, and officials have warned that failure to appear will result in a unilateral decision. The move, officials say, is part of broader efforts to curb individuals deemed disruptive to public order. BJP MLAs React Sharply Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna condemned the police actions as 'intimidation tactics,' claiming officers had been visiting homes of Hindu activists at night and taking GPS-tagged photographs. 'They are being treated like criminals, while drug trafficking, illegal cattle transport, and forced conversions are going unchecked,' he alleged. Karkala MLA and former minister V Sunil Kumar echoed these concerns, accusing the government of selectively applying hate speech laws. 'Leaders who express community concerns are being punished, while real instigators walk free. This selective enforcement will only worsen communal tensions,' he said. Congress Faces Allegations of Appeasement The BJP leaders have alleged that the state's approach is rooted in appeasement politics, intended to consolidate minority vote banks ahead of elections, at the cost of peace and communal balance in the coastal region. Sunil Kumar also responded sharply to recent remarks attributed to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, suggesting that voters in Dakshina Kannada are less reliant on Congress welfare guarantees. 'The people here are self-reliant and contribute significantly to the state's tax revenues. They deserve respect, not patronising statements,' he said. No Response from Congress As of Monday evening, there was no official response from the Karnataka Home Department or Congress leaders regarding the FIR or externment notice. Police officials have maintained that their actions are based on procedural law and concern for public order. (eom)
Hans India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
At least, the RSS engages in thoughts and debates: Former Cong leader Arvind Netam
Arvind Netam, a seasoned tribal leader from Chhattisgarh and former Congress heavyweight, is once again in the spotlight. The 83-year-old has been invited by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the chief guest at the valedictory ceremony of 'Karyakarta Vikas Varg Dwiteeya,' scheduled for June 5, 2025, in Nagpur. He will share the podium with RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat. RSS has placed the invitation at its official X handle. Netam, a veteran leader from Bastar, has witnessed the shifting political landscape since the onset of economic liberalisation. Speaking to IANS, he reflected on his current phase of life, describing himself as retired and convinced that little can be done to change the life of tribal people in the existing political framework. His invitation to the RSS event is widely viewed as part of the organisation's broader strategy to strengthen its engagement with tribal communities. Having spent his life advocating for tribal welfare, Netam has largely stepped away from active politics. While his interactions with the RSS have been limited, he acknowledges their recognition of his contributions. He sees his participation in the event not as a political move but as an opportunity to engage as a social worker. However, he believes the RSS still falls short of fully grasping the complexities of tribal regions. There remains gaps in their approach. His presence at the event marks a significant moment in the evolving relationship between tribal leadership and the RSS, raising questions about future collaborations and ideological shifts. He explained that when tribal leaders sought to address concerns with the BJP, they believed it was more effective to approach the RSS, though interactions were initially minimal. Asked about his discussions with the RSS chief Dr Bhagwat, Netam shared that he tried to explain how the organisation was failing to grasp the depth of tribal issues. He lamented that there is no other organization capable of handling such social concerns. 'Unlike political parties, at least the RSS engages in some level of thought on the matter.' He noted that they seemed somewhat convinced. In Nagpur, he intends to present his views on the challenges tribal people face. Netam emphasised that although he has withdrawn from active political engagements; his contributions have been recognised by RSS, and that is how he views the invitation. He believes the RSS has yet to fully understand the tribal issues despite having many influential thinkers. He says they sometimes ignorantly overlook critical aspects of tribal life. The real concern today, he asserts, is the adverse impact of liberalisation, which began in 1991, on tribal communities. He warns that the exploitation of natural resources by powerful governments, irrespective of ruling parties, will intensify, with Bastar standing as a prime example of the looming crisis. Recalling past experiences, he cited the formulation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) in 1996. Bureaucrats treated it as a mere formality, pushing for its passage without fully grasping its significance. He mentioned that some well-intentioned officials sought his assistance in addressing key issues. While state governments were eager to accept the Act, its true essence -- protecting tribal rights -- was largely overlooked. Issues such as displacement, access to water, forests, and land remain neglected, leading to irreversible damage. Netam expressed deep disappointment in rehabilitation efforts, stating that no displacement project has been effectively executed, leaving affected communities unheard. Regardless of which government is in power, the plight of displaced communities remains unchanged. Despite numerous laws being enacted, constitutional violations persist, and no government truly adheres to them. Netam stated that he sees himself as a social worker and has no further role left in politics. If he had remained in Congress, his approach to societal issues would have been much clearer. In hindsight, he believes he may have been naive in his expectations. Discussing the anti-LWE drive, Netam revealed that he had been vocal on the issue since 1980. Over time, interactions have diminished, and the Indian government has taken a firm stand and claimed credit for addressing the problem. The political dynamics between the 'Left and Right' influenced the Central government's firm stance. While action has been taken, he cautioned that ignoring the issues would have been a serious mistake. He witnessed first-hand how they were treated during his tenure. As long as Maoists remain active, they will be used as a justification for further exploitation. He questioned what comes next, noting that no one is seriously addressing displacement, healthcare, and other pressing concerns. The government's approach lacks urgency, allowing problems to escalate. Now, the presence of one lakh paramilitary forces in Chhattisgarh ensures that resource exploitation continues. Reflecting on his life, he acknowledged the challenges he faced in trying to highlight critical issues. Without intervention, he believes the situation would have worsened. He argued that tribal struggles have never been genuinely understood and that no government has ever explained the origins of LWE. He recalled visiting affected areas where officials dismissed concerns, reacting casually even when confronted with serious grievances. Asked what key points he intends to discuss with the RSS in Nagpur, Netam identified corruption as the biggest challenge. He remarked that finding a solution is incredibly difficult worldwide. He cited late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's observation that out of every hundred rupees allocated, only fifteen reach the intended beneficiaries. This problem persists, and despite repeated discussions, no government has taken meaningful steps toward a resolution. Issues such as religious conversions, displacement, and ineffective law enforcement continue to plague society. He believes there needs to be a fundamental shift in people's thinking. Responding to speculation, stemmed from the invitation, about whether he might join the BJP in the future, Netam dismissed the possibility. At 84 years old, he considers his political journey complete. His time in public service has turned into social services, and he no longer holds any aspirations. He said he had played his innings, and now, there was nothing left for him to pursue. His interest in political affairs has faded. His deep understanding of tribal issues stems from decades of experience, including his tenure as a parliamentarian in P.V. Narasimha Rao's government. He previously served as Minister of State for Education and Social Welfare in Indira Gandhi's cabinet from 1973 to 1977 and later held the position of Minister of State for Agriculture from 1993 to 1996 under Narasimha Rao.
Hans India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Delhi CM chairs session at seminar on Deendayal Upadhyaya's vision
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta chaired a session on the inaugural day of a two-day seminar on Saturday to commemorate 60 years of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's Integral Humanism and his vision behind founding the Jana Sangh for social transformation. A two-day seminar and exhibition commenced at the NDMC Convention Centre in New Delhi to revisit speeches delivered by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Arun Kumar, Seh Sarkaryawah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), said that both the Jan Sangh and BJP have a historical legacy, and will complete 75 years on October 21. He said these outfits' founding vision was not merely to build an organisation, but to transform society. He pointed out that post-independence, India's biggest challenge was ideological confusion. 'Independence did not just mean ending British rule; it required a clear national vision, which had started fading,' he said. Arun Kumar added that when Pandit Deendayal founded the Jana Sangh, he faced two questions: Whether India had its own ideological foundation, and whether the existing political system could support growth, or whether a new party was needed. 'When they contested the 1952 elections and won three seats, the Jana Sangh established itself as a national party. With national expansion and cadre-building, the philosophy of Integral Humanism was introduced,' he said. He said that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya never claimed to present a new ideology, but offered a different interpretation of India's existing traditions. The seminar is part of a national series of events commemorating 60 years of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's Integral Humanism. He noted that this is not only the 60th year of Integral Humanism, but also the 75th Amrit Kaal of Indian independence. Earlier, Arun Kumar paid floral tributes to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's statue and inaugurated the exhibition organised by the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Foundation and PPRC.
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
At his book release, Gadkari credits RSS and ABVP for his conviction, sensitivity
Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday credited his sense of conviction and purpose in life to his ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, and its students' union, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad. 'Top RSS leaders' life and works, founded on sacrifice and selfless service, inculcated in me the seeds of sensitivity and patriotism. The RSS, which is focused on character building and nation building, left a lasting impression on me in my formative years. And it helped me evolve both as an individual and a politician,' Gadkari said. He was speaking at the release of his Marathi book Sanghatil Manavi Vyavasthapan (Human resource management in RSS) in Nagpur. 'I learnt in the RSS and ABVP that politics is an instrument of socio-economic reforms. This sense of conviction and sensitivity came from the RSS and ABVP,' he said, after the book was released by Sunil Ambekar, communication in-charge of RSS. 'Human relationship is the biggest strength of politics and social work, and I learnt it in the the RSS. It should not be misused to serve vested interests,' he said. The senior leader also offered glimpse into his early childhood days. 'As a schoolboy, once I came home and savoured the home-made 'ladoo'. Outside, my friend was waiting. Seeing this, my mother expressed her disappointment. Even if you have one piece of sweet, you should share it with your friends. This lesson has stayed with me,' Gadkari said. 'Now, I have a fourteen-seater dining table at home. Anybody who walks in during lunch time is asked to join me. These are small lessons but very important in shaping your lives. Similarly, watching RSS stalwarts helped in building my sensitivity. I closely saw how these leaders always upheld nation first,' Gadkari added.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Gadkari's 1st Book Offers Insight Into RSS's Ethos & Working Style
1 2 Nagpur: In a significant literary event coinciding with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) centenary in 2025, Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari's book 'Sanghatil Manavi Vyavasthapan' (Human Management in the Sangh) was released on Friday. The book, which happens to be the first one written by Gadkari, provides a unique perspective on the RSS's operational style, authored by an internationally recognised figure. Sunil Ambekar, All India Prachar Pramukh of the RSS, speaking at the book launch event at Vanamati, emphasised Gadkari's ability to articulate the organisation's methods in a simple and relatable manner. "Often, significance of positive influences in our lives is realised only later," Ambekar stated, adding, "Nitin Gadkari has effectively described the RSS's ethos and working style through his book, using straightforward language. " The event also featured senior editor and thinker Vivek Ghalsasi as chief guest. Rajhans Prakashan's Naresh Sabjiwale was also present. During the book launch ceremony, individuals who contributed to the book's creation were also honoured. Ambekar also shed light on the inspiration behind the RSS's founding and its century-long journey. He said, "Nitin Gadkari, as an RSS volunteer, shares his personal experiences. His insights, gained as a volunteer and student activist, resonate deeply with society. Maintaining humility and simplicity while achieving success is a significant challenge, and Gadkari successfully navigated this." Vivek Ghalsasi said, "While Gadkari's upbringing within the RSS and student movement is notable, the influence of his mother, late Bhanutai, is equally profound. His ability to work without self-aggrandizement is commendable." Gadkari himself attributed his life's transformation to his mother, the RSS, and the student movement. "All the three instilled in me a strong value system," he said. He also acknowledged the influence of figures like Balasaheb Deoras, Bhaurao Deoras, Dattopant Thengdi, Baburao Vaidya, and Yashwantrao Kelkar. "Their association was a constant source of inspiration," Gadkari said, emphasising that the book reflects his personal experiences as a volunteer. Gadkari credited senior journalist Shailesh Pandey with the book's articulation and significant contribution. "Conviction is essential for decisive action and social sensitivity, and I gained that through my upbringing," Gadkari said. "The desire to serve the nation and society was instilled in me through my values," said the Union minister. RSS idealogue Ashutosh Adoni served as the master of ceremony. The event featured a solo performance by singer Amar Kulkarni and concluded with 'Pasaydan' recital by Radha Thengdi.
