The speech comes at a time when the Maratha community is demanding reservations and expressing discontent with the BJP
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – Concerned over the setback for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recent Lok Sabha elections, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief has highlighted the importance of Hindu unity and called for friendship with Dalits.
Addressing a gathering in Nagpur, Mohan Bhagwat noted that one of the reasons for the party’s setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections was the fear among Dalits that a significant BJP victory could lead to changes in the country’s constitution. “We need to remember that powerful people want to divide our country on caste lines, and political parties are supporting this in their own interests,” he said.
Bhagwat emphasised that the Hindu society must move beyond caste differences and assist Dalits and weaker sections. “Without this unity, we cannot become a powerful society,” he said warning that attempts to divide Hindus are ongoing, whether through disputes over reservations or other means. “Even our saints are being divided,” he lamented, questioning why celebrations like Valmiki Jayanti are limited to Valmiki colonies. “We should all celebrate Valmiki Jayanti and Ravi Das Jayanti together,” he added.
Bhagwat underscored that a strong society can only be built by eliminating such differences. He called for social harmony and mutual support, urging those present to approach and assist Dalits in fulfilling their needs. “All sections of society should have equal access to public places and places of worship, particularly temples,” he asserted.
His speech comes at a time when the Maratha community is demanding reservations and expressing discontent with the BJP, raising concerns for the RSS ahead of upcoming assembly elections.
Referring to the Hindus in Bangladesh, Bhagwat noted, “Despite the atrocities faced, the Hindu community there united and fought for their survival. This is unprecedented.” He stressed the need for Hindus worldwide to unite and provide support to ensure the safety of Bangladeshi Hindus. “Being weak is a crime. We must stand united wherever we are,” he stated, repeating concerns about the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh and its impact on Hindu communities.
