At a time when Hindu politics is at its peak, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent speech has garnered significant attention. Bhagwat stated that the term 'Hindu Nation' holds no political power. The opposition consistently accuses the BJP of leveraging this ideology to maintain power.
It's commonly believed that the Sangh provides intellectual fuel to the BJP periodically. Despite their differences, the Sangh and the BJP converge at certain points. Clearly, Bhagwat's words are not mere rhetoric; they articulate the foundational ideology of the Sangh and set a direction for the ruling BJP in the country. Yet, what implications does this statement from the Sangh Chief hold? Is it a direct message to BJP leaders?
Striving for Political Balance
Bhagwat's recent statement comes at a time when the opposition routinely claims that the BJP promotes majoritarianism and polarization. With the BJP in power for a second consecutive term and holding sway in multiple states, Bhagwat's remark that the Hindu Nation isn't about political control may be viewed as an effort to achieve political balance. The statement could also suggest that the Sangh seeks to guide the BJP to tread more softly on the Hindu Nation issue.
Since its inception, the RSS has been vocal about the concept of a Hindu Nation. Golwalkar, known as Guruji, defined it by stating that India's soul is Hindu and its cultural roots stem from Hindutva. The Sangh has consistently maintained that the term 'Hindu' encompasses civilization, tradition, lifestyle, and social values. Consequently, the Sangh has always posited that Muslims, Christians, Parsis, and other religious communities are as much a part of this nation as Hindus are.
Sangh Firm on Its Roots; Timing Crucial for the BJP
Hence, Bhagwat's statement is a reaffirmation of the Sangh's longstanding stance. The RSS does not directly participate in power politics. Its real strength lies in social building, education, service, and cultural work. Therefore, there is nothing novel in the Sangh Chief asserting that the objective of a Hindu Nation is not to achieve parliamentary majority, but to forge a society characterized by morality, solidarity, and cultural unity. However, the timing of his statement is crucial. It could indicate that the Sangh is drawing a boundary for the BJP or sending a message to minorities.
Sangh Desires Softer Stance on Minorities from BJP
The phrase 'Hindu Nation' in India is often linked to a sense of insecurity among Muslims and other minorities. The opposition perceives it as a majoritarian agenda. This is why Congress leaders have frequently targeted the RSS more than the BJP. This might explain why Bhagwat's statement that the Hindu Nation is not about political dominance carries weight. Instead, it's a vision of a collective cultural identity embracing everyone.
It is important to consider why the Sangh reiterates this stance repeatedly. Could it be signaling the BJP to soften its posture ahead of upcoming assembly elections? The Bharatiya Janata Party is vocally targeting minorities over demographic changes and voter list revisions in Bihar and Bengal. It might be that the Sangh desires the BJP to adopt a more conciliatory approach.
Focusing on Fundamental Issues Like Unemployment
Bhagwat's statement indirectly reminds the BJP that the Sangh's vision extends beyond mere power. While the BJP may utilize the notion of a Hindu Nation as a political slogan to amass power, Bhagwat's words could also be grounded in practical politics. Repeatedly, it's noted that issues like unemployment and the farmer crisis have been overshadowed by Hindu-Muslim politics. The Sangh might be suggesting that the Hindu Nation should aim to address these challenges through community-based solutions, rather than turning a blind eye to them.
Potential Impact of Bhagwat's Counsel:
- Oppositions' accusations against the BJP as using the Hindu Nation for mere power play could be weakened.
- BJP might have to reflect inclusivity in its discourse and policies.
- Internationally, India could be viewed as a culturally inclusive and democratic nation, not authoritarian.
- Bhagwat's statement that true harmony is coordination, not conflict, could foster unity among Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains, and hope for harmony among nationalistic-minded Muslims towards Hinduism.
