New Delhi – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) national publicity in-charge Sunil Ambekar addressed a range of issues in a recent interview with The Hindu, including restrictions on public prayer, the appointment of a new BJP chief, and demographic concerns.
Navigating Religious Practice and Public Order
Ambekar responded to questions regarding incidents in BJP-ruled states involving restrictions on namaz offered on roads and other actions. He stated, “Even Muslim-majority countries do not allow prayers on roads and have designated places for worship.” He characterized government restrictions on public prayer as matters of law and order, rather than religious restriction.
Leadership and Ideology
When asked about the appointment of Nitin Nabin as the new BJP chief and his prior lack of association with the RSS, Ambekar asserted that Nabin has years of experience within the BJP and that the party is capable of instilling the core ideology of the organization.
National Interest and International Affairs
Regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Ambekar called for opposition parties to support the government and prioritize national interest. He stated, “War should be fought for truth and the welfare of the people, not for personal or selfish interests and I truly feel that India is following that right path.”
Demographic Concerns and Historical Context
Ambekar addressed concerns about demographic change and population imbalance, linking them to historical events such as the partition of India and similar situations in Lebanon. He explained that differing interpretations of shared ancestry and history can contribute to societal divisions.
Constitutional Processes and Regional Stability
Ambekar defended the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) as constitutional processes designed to safeguard national interest. He noted that legal recourse is available for those wrongly excluded from these processes. He also acknowledged the right to protest, citing examples of youth-led demonstrations in Nepal and Bangladesh, even as highlighting the different context in India.
Expansion and Future Vision
The RSS has expanded its organizational structure with the introduction of a new divisional level to extend outreach to villages, tehsils, and mandals across India. Ambekar affirmed that the organization’s vision remains focused on fostering unity, national development, and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RSS’s stance on restrictions placed on religious practices in public spaces?
The RSS views restrictions on namaz on roads as law-and-order decisions, not religious restrictions, according to Sunil Ambekar.
How does the RSS view the appointment of Nitin Nabin as BJP chief?
The RSS believes that Nitin Nabin’s prior experience within the BJP is sufficient for him to understand and uphold the core ideology of the organization.
What does the RSS say about demographic changes in India?
The RSS links demographic changes to historical events like the partition of India, suggesting that differing interpretations of shared ancestry can contribute to societal divisions.
As the RSS continues to expand its reach and influence, how might its vision for India’s future shape the nation’s social and political landscape?
