Hindu Rashtra is egalitarian, no Hindu vs others: RSS chief

He also emphasized the Sangh’s independent identity, and separation from the government, claiming that while discussions are held on “Achar, Vichar, Sanskar” (conduct, ideology and values) it does not impose its view on anyone. Bhagwat did not name any organisation, but it is believed that the reference was to reiterate the agency and independence of the BJP. Although the Sangh maintains a distance from electoral politics, it is seen as the ideological bedrock of the BJP and is believed to play a key role in the party’s political strategy, policy making and organisational appointments.

Bhagwat who was speaking in the opening day of a three-day lecture series ‘New Horizons’ organised by the Sangh as part of its centenary celebration also reiterated that the RSS, which has overcome “challenges and false allegations” in its journey, was not formed in reaction or opposition to anyone.

“Sangh was not a party to any protest or opposition... when someone asked Guruji (MS Golwalkar; the man who built the organisation) why a Sangh Shakha was needed in areas with no Muslims or Christians, he said a Hindu Samaj and a Shakha would exist even if there were no Muslims anywhere in the world,” Bhagwat said.