The Role of RSS in India and Its Historical Impact
The Role of RSS in India and Its Historical Impact
Organizations play a significant role in shaping the political and social fabric of any country. One such entity, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has been a major force in India since its inception. This article delves into the historical context of the RSS, particularly focusing on the views and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent Indian leader, towards the organization.
Understanding RSS
The RSS, founded in 1925 in Nagpur, India, is a voluntary, non-political, and non-partisan organization that promotes Hindu Rashtra (Hindu Nation) through the revival of Hindu culture and values. Its activities and ideologies have been a subject of debate, especially in the context of its alleged involvement in communal tensions and political activism.
Patel Saab's Perspective on RSS
Letter 1: July 18, 1948
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the then Home Minister of India, wrote to Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on July 18, 1948. In the letter, Patel expressed his grave concerns about the RSS's activities, despite the organization being under a ban. He highlighted that the extreme section of the Hindu Mahasabha was involved in the conspiracy to kill Mahatma Gandhi. Moreover, he pointed out that the activities of RSS constituted a clear threat to the existence of the government and the state. According to reports, the RSS activities continued unabated, even after the ban.
There is no doubt in my mind that the extreme section of the Hindu Mahasabha was involved in the conspiracy to kill Gandhi. The activities of the RSS constituted a clear threat to the existence of Government and the State. Our reports show that those activities despite the ban have not died down. Indeed as time has marched on the RSS circles are becoming more defiant and are indulging in their subversive activities in an increasing measure.
Letter 2: September 1948
Patel also wrote to M.S. Golwalkar in September 1948, explaining his decision to ban the RSS. In this letter, he referred to the RSS's organizing efforts and their role in communal poisoning, which he believed were detrimental to the harmony and unity of the nation. He highlighted that while organizing Hindus and helping them is one thing, resorting to revenge and antagonizing the government was another.
Organizing the Hindus and helping them is one thing but going in for revenge for its sufferings on innocent and helpless men women and children is quite another thing…apart from this their opposition to the Congress that to of such virulence disregarding all considerations of personality decay of decorum created a kind of unrest among the people. All their speeches were filled of communal poison. It was not necessary to spread poison in order to enthuse the Hindus and organize for their protection. As a final result of the poison the country had to suffer the sacrifice of the invaluable life of Gandhiji. Even an iota of the sympathy of the Government or of the people no more remained for the RSS. In face opposition grew. Opposition turned more severe when the RSS men expressed joy and distributed sweets after Gandhiji's death. Under these conditions it became inevitable for the Government to take action against the RSS…Since then over six months have elapsed. We had hoped that after this lapse of time with full and proper consideration the RSS persons would come to the right path. But from the reports that come to me it is evident that attempts to put fresh life into their same old activities are afoot.
The Current Context
Over the decades, the role of the RSS has evolved. It has been accused of promoting communal divisions and engaging in political activities that influence the government. The question remains as to whether there is a need for a modern-day Patel Saab to address and curb the extremist elements within the organization.
The actions and thoughts of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel remain relevant in today's political discourse in India. His cautionary messages and warnings provide insights into the potential dangers of extremist ideologies and their impact on national unity and harmony.
Conclusion
The role of RSS in India is a complex and contentious issue. While it has contributed to the revival of Hindu culture, it has also been associated with communal tensions and political activism. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's letters provide a critical perspective on the organization's activities and the challenges it posed to the government and the nation. As India continues to navigate its political landscape, the lessons from the past serve as a reminder of the importance of fostering unity and harmony.