Bhagwat's remarks a sign of inclusive policy: RSS insiders

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent remarks in Pune where he spoke about a reconciliation with the past and steering clear of raking new disputes on the existence of temples and mosques showcases the outfit's move towards an inclusive and progressive organisation, senior functionaries said on Saturday.

- Pradip Kumar Maitra

Bhagwat's statements are also being seen as advocating inter-faith harmony in an effort to counter the perception of the RSS as a rigid, hard-line Hindu organisation, said the people cited above.

A senior RSS functionary, who sought anonymity, pointed out that Bhagwat has been consistent with his approach - he urged restraint during the Gyanvapi mosque controversy in Uttar Pradesh, stating there was no need to constantly search for Shivlings or Hindu symbols in mosques, as it only stokes unnecessary tension.

Similarly, in a June 2022 event in Nagpur, Bhagwat declared that the RSS had no interest in launching new agitations after the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, indirectly dismissing the need to push for the "liberation" of Kashi and Mathura temples, where mosques exist alongside.