Congress Hits Out at RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Over ‘True Independence’ Remarks

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th Jan. The Congress on Thursday launched a scathing attack on RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat after his remarks equating the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya with India’s “true independence.” The party accused Bhagwat of undermining the Constitution and questioned the RSS’s commitment to democratic values.

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said Bhagwat’s statement insulted India’s freedom fighters and demonstrated the RSS’s disregard for the Constitution.

“Everyone knows it took 52 years for the RSS to accept the tricolour. When millions of Indians were fighting for independence, they were working as partners with the British,” Baghel said.

Congress Defends Rahul Gandhi Amid BJP Criticism
The Congress also defended Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who recently faced backlash from the BJP for his comments that the Congress was battling “the BJP, the RSS, and the Indian state itself.” Baghel claimed Gandhi’s remarks were misrepresented, asserting, “Rahul ji’s vision is democratic, inclusive, and just. The BJP cannot twist his words to suit their narrative.”

The BJP accused Gandhi of divisive rhetoric, with party leaders alleging his remarks aimed to “break India.” Baghel dismissed these claims, accusing the BJP of distorting facts and weakening India’s social and economic fabric.

RSS’s Role in Freedom Struggle Questioned
Baghel further questioned the historical role of the RSS during India’s freedom struggle, asserting that its members collaborated with the British rather than joining the fight for independence. “Mohan Bhagwat and his people have been speaking against the Constitution and have repeatedly shown their intent to alter it,” he added.

Baghel criticized Bhagwat’s comments linking the Ram Temple consecration to “true independence,” suggesting it disrespected the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters. He argued that such statements reflect a fundamental disregard for constitutional values and democratic principles.

Bhagwat’s Remarks
Addressing a gathering earlier this week, Bhagwat said that the consecration of the Ram Temple should be celebrated as “Pratishtha Dwadashi,” marking the establishment of India’s “true independence” after centuries of foreign invasions. He stated that while political independence was achieved in 1947, the Constitution was not fully aligned with the nation’s “self” and vision at the time.

Bhagwat’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, with Congress accusing the RSS-BJP of attempting to rewrite India’s history and undermine its democratic institutions.