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RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat recently made a statement in Nagpur. He talked about how discrimination still exists in our society. To tackle this, he mentioned that reservations should continue for as long as there is inequality. In simpler terms, he means that the system of reservations should stay in place until we achieve a more equal and fair society.
He also talked about something called ‘Akhand Bharat,’ which means a united India without any divisions. He believes this idea could become a reality while today’s young generation is still around. This is because some countries that separated from India in 1947 are now starting to think that they might have made a mistake by doing so.
It’s worth noting that Mr. Bhagwat’s comments on reservations come at a time when the Maratha community is actively seeking reservation benefits, and their protests have been getting more intense
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Speaks on Reservations and Envisions ‘Akhand Bharat’
In a recent address in Nagpur, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat touched upon two significant topics. Firstly, he acknowledged the persistence of discrimination in our society and expressed the view that reservations should continue as long as inequality prevails. Secondly, he discussed the concept of ‘Akhand Bharat’ or a united India, and expressed optimism that it could become a reality in the lifetime of today’s youth.
Regarding reservations, Bhagwat emphasised that these affirmative action measures must address historical discrimination and ensure equality. He stressed that discrimination still exists, even if it’s not always visible, and reservations are a way to provide respect and opportunities to marginalised sections of society. He supported the reservations as outlined in the Constitution.
On the topic of ‘Akhand Bharat,’ Bhagwat stated that unity among nations that separated from India in 1947 is growing, with some regretting their decision. He believes that the lines on the map need not be erased; instead, embracing the essence of India is what matters.
RSS Chief Addresses Flag Hoisting Tradition and Pandit Nehru Incident
During a recent discussion, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat responded to claims about the RSS not hoisting the national flag at its headquarters in the Mahal area in Nagpur from 1950 to 2002. He clarified that the RSS has been hoisting the national flag every year on August 15 and January 26, regardless of the location. Flag-hoisting ceremonies take place at both their Mahal and Reshimbagh campuses in Nagpur. Bhagwat expressed a sentiment that such questions should not be directed towards them.
In addition, Bhagwat recounted an incident from 1933 during the Congress’s Tejpur convention near Jalgaon. He mentioned that Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag on an 80-foot pole, but it got stuck halfway in front of a crowd of around 10,000 people. A brave youth from the gathering stepped forward, climbed the pole, and unfurled the flag, saving the situation.
Interestingly, Bhagwat claimed that Pandit Nehru intended to felicitate this courageous youth the next day but didn’t do so because he was informed that the young man had attended an RSS ‘shakha’ (daily assembly). This historical anecdote adds a layer of context to the relationship between prominent political figures and the RSS in India’s history.
RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, upon learning about this incident, personally visited the youth’s home and commended his bravery. The young hero was named Kishan Singh Rajput.
Mohan Bhagwat, the RSS Chief, emphasised that the RSS has always held the honour of the national flag in high regard. They have been associated with the flag’s honour from the earliest days, when challenges arose. Whether it’s flag hoisting or any act that upholds the dignity of the national flag, RSS volunteers, known as swayamsevaks, have consistently been at the forefront, ready to sacrifice even their lives for this cause.