The recent commendation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) by senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has unveiled significant disagreements within the party. While a faction vehemently opposes the idea of learning from the RSS, others perceive it as an opportunity to improve methodologies despite ideological differences. Congress has accused the BJP of distorting the party's statements amid this turmoil.
Following Digvijaya Singh’s remarks, questions about internal ideological unity and strategic vision have surfaced within the party. Leaders like Pawan Khera and Supriya Shrinate outrightly reject the RSS, whereas TS Singh and Shashi Tharoor advocate for learning from RSS’s organizational success as a way to refine Congress's approach. This controversy challenges the ideological unity and strategic direction of Congress.
Source: aajtak
What Did Digvijaya Say?
Digvijaya Singh recently praised the organizational might of RSS. Sharing an old photo of PM Modi on X, he remarked, 'I found this image on Quora. It's quite impactful. It shows how grassroots volunteers and workers of RSS and Jan Sangh BJP have climbed political ranks to chief minister and prime minister. This signifies the power of organization. Jai Siya Ram.' However, Singh was clear in his rejection of RSS’s ideology.
Source: aajtak
'Nothing to Learn from RSS'
Citing a strong opposition, Congress leader Pawan Khera stated, 'There’s nothing worth learning from RSS. An organization known for Godse cannot teach anything to the one founded by Gandhi.' His point alluded to Nathuram Godse, associated with the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, and alleged historical links to RSS.
Khera reiterated, 'An institution set up by Gandhi need not take lessons from such organizations.'
Manipulation of Remarks
National spokesperson Supriya Shrinate targeted BJP, claiming, 'BJP twists our statements. We have nothing to learn from RSS; we fought the British regime and turned it into a people's movement. Our party's historical role demonstrates the futility of learning from RSS.'
Emphasizing Congress’s monumental contribution, Shrinate asserted that the party spearheaded a vast movement against injustice, hence learning from a body like RSS is unjustifiable.
TS Singh’s Defense
TS Singh Deo, another senior Congress figure, stood in defense of Digvijaya Singh. 'As per my understanding, Singh categorically dismissed RSS ideology. You can disagree with ideology while acknowledging efficient practices.' He explained, 'Multiplicity of affiliations allows learning from different setups. Whether in cricket or politics, improved practices help evolve. Fast bowlers, like effective strategies, are crucial; staying stuck to one style is not smart. Learning isn’t exclusive to RSS.'
Strengthening the Organization: Shashi Tharoor
Additionally, Shashi Tharoor emphasized the need to bolster Congress’s structure amidst ongoing debates on Digvijaya Singh’s leadership remarks. 'We must fortify our organization, echoed in Singh’s statements. Our dialogue is natural – emphasizing our party’s progress is imperative.'
On Congress’s 140th foundation day, Tharoor noted, 'It is a pivotal day to celebrate our heritage and Congress’s remarkable impact.' His dialogue with Singh reflects a commitment to strengthening roots while navigating present controversies.
