More clarity needed on Bhagwat's advice

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsangchalak Mohan Bhagwat, considered by many as the most powerful man in the saffron brigade, continues to express opinions, however some of his followers do not listen to him.

- PANKAJ VOHRA

On Friday while delivering a lecture in Pune, he said that it was pointless to keep on raking Mandir-Masjid controversies, and it would be appropriate if all communities and castes learn to co-exist peacefully.

Bhagwat said that every citizen in the country should be treated as equal and it was the Constitution which provided the compass for everyone to lead their lives. However, what he did not take into account is that while it was one thing to state things theoretically, on the other, it was completely different when things took place practically.

If Bhagwat is attempting to bring down the temperature in respect of the divisive politics that has taken the centre stage, and is threatening to further create gaps between the citizens, he needs to be applauded. Nevertheless, he should by reining in his own supporters ensure that they do not say or do anything which creates distances amongst communities and the people.

In a country which is governed by the Constitution, there can be no first amongst equals. The diversity which he acknowledged has always been our strength and therefore no attempt should be made to create further differences that can impact the overall security and unity of the country.