Bhagwat affirms electoral process as sole route for governance transition
Nagpur, October 20: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat said that power change in India is possible through the electoral process within the framework of social harmony and the Constitution, but power change in our country has never happened due to anarchy, nor will it happen.
The RSS chief was expressing his views on the current circumstances and problems of the country and the world at the RSS Vijayadashami celebration held at the Reshimbagh ground in Nagpur, Maharashtra on Tuesday.
He said that the inspiration and indirect interference of the Western world is causing turmoil in many countries around the world. We are all witnessing violent activities and power change in the name of regime change in Nepal, Bangladesh, Albania, and France. Similar unsuccessful attempts are being made in India as well.
Bhagwat stated that certain forces in the Western world seek to weaken the system, cultural values, and human values. He stated that while a change in power claims to change circumstances, merely changing power or governance does not provide a permanent solution to problems. He urged society to remain vigilant to protect the country from any kind of chaos and divisive tendencies. With this, the RSS centenary celebrations concluded.
Regarding the role of movements, RSS chief Bhagwat stated that the objective of movements should be solutions. While it is natural for a society or group to launch movements to address a problem, it is equally important to pay attention to the direction and purpose of the movement.
He emphasized that both the groups involved in the movement and the government, tasked with maintaining peace and order, have a responsibility to ensure that their actions do not create unnecessary conflict and animosity in society.
He cautioned that even amidst intense emotions, constitutional decorum must be observed. Restraint is essential in speech, behavior, and public activities. The desire to gain votes, cheap popularity or political mileage should not override prudence and goodwill. According to him, when a movement becomes a means to some other political goal instead of solving a real problem, its original purpose can be lost.
Emphasizing on the unity of the country, the Sangh chief said that people of different languages, religions, castes and traditions live in India. Despite this, the common social and emotional identity that binds the country has been its important characteristic. He said that accepting and protecting diversity is part of the tradition of Indian society.
Referring to “We the People of India” as enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution, he underscored the importance of a shared national identity and mutual bonding. According to him, weakening a society’s emotional unity also impacts its collective strength. Therefore, it is essential to maintain mutual respect and harmony despite differences.
Regarding the national song Vande Mataram, Bhagwat said that Lord Curzon had partitioned Bengal on religious grounds. During this time, “Vande Mataram” emerged as a symbol of unity and patriotism. As a result, the British had to reverse their decision, and the partition of Bengal failed. However, this did not happen in 1947, as people became consumed by hatred and forgot national unity. Ultimately, the country was divided.
According to the Sarsanghchalak, Vande Mataram, which foiled the conspiracy to partition Bengal, remains a powerful source of unity even today. It is our national anthem, and there should be no hesitation or objection in singing it in full, with pride, and in a loud voice.
The Sarsanghchalak also expressed concern over the growing drug addiction among youth and the increasing influence of drugs. He said that due to the lack of conscience and moral values, the young generation is falling prey to drugs. This problem is not limited to any one family but is a serious national challenge. To combat it, the government, administration, and society must make decisive efforts together.
He said that it is the collective responsibility of society to inculcate moral values and good conscience in the new generation. RSS volunteers will also make efforts to launch a nationwide public awareness and prevention campaign against drug abuse.
Referring to the work done during the RSS’s centenary year, Bhagwat emphasized the five principles of social harmony, family enlightenment, environmental protection, self-awareness and Swadeshi, and fulfillment of civic duties. He said that the five principles of change are not just a one-year campaign, but should be made a part of daily life.
On the increasing use of science, technology, and artificial intelligence, he said that moral discipline and discretion are also necessary along with these. Technology should not be used to spread falsehoods or mislead people. Society needs to be vigilant against this.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, and the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti’s chief director, Shantakka, along with several public representatives, also participated.
