'Even Hindu dharma not registered': Bhagwat on RSS's registration debate
What's the story
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has addressed the ongoing debate over the organization's registration status. He said that even "Hindu dharma is not registered," and cited the three times the RSS has been banned as proof of its recognition by the government. Bhagwat was speaking at an event in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where he also spoke about its tax-exempt status and the aim to organize Hindu society for national glory.
Historical defense
Should we have registered with British government? Bhagwat asks
Bhagwat defended the RSS's unregistered status by referring to its history. "Should we have registered RSS with British government as it was established in 1925?" he asked. After independence in 1947, he said there was no requirement for registration. "The government did not make it compulsory to register," he said. He also spoke about the organization's tax-exempt status, stating that it is recognized as a "body of individuals" by the Income Tax Department and courts.
Mission statement
Hindus responsible for Bharat, not power seekers: Bhagwat
The RSS chief reiterated the organization's mission to organize Hindu society for national glory, not power. He said Hindus are "responsible" for Bharat and defined Hindus as all Indians, including Muslims and Christians. Bhagwat also spoke about the organization's challenges over the years, including bans and opposition. He emphasized that RSS is not a reactionary body but an organization "of" society, not "in" it.
Societal focus
Dialogue has started with non-Hindus, says RSS chief
Bhagwat said the RSS wants to organize the entire Hindu society, including those who came from outside India. He added that dialogue has started with those who don't identify as Hindus. The remarks come amid tensions with the Congress-led Karnataka government, which has restricted the RSS's use of public spaces. Minister Priyank Kharge clarified that while they seek transparency in activities, they haven't asked for a ban on the organization.
All welcome
'All denominations can come, with one condition'
Bhagwat clarified that the organisation does not categorise members by caste or religion. "No Brahmin is allowed in Sangh. No other caste is allowed in the Sangh. No Muslim is allowed, no Christian is allowed in the Sangha. Only Hindus are allowed. So, people with different denominations, Muslims, Christians, any denomination, can come to the Sangha (RSS) but keep your separateness out," he said.