Pune, January 03: Reacting to the politics of ‘Hindu terror’, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat, on Sunday warned that the consequences would be disastrous if the patience and tolerance of the RSS is tested by linking it to terrorism.
He did not name the Congress or the recent barbs by its leaders on the RSS while speaking publicly at the Vishwa Sangh Shibir (VSS), a convention of international Hindu volunteers from 35 countries. But he said, “Whenever governments get destabilised due to their mistakes and they lose public support, they try to find a scapegoat in the RSS. They are pointing fingers at the RSS to divert attention.”
The RSS chief stressed that Hinduism and terrorism are antonyms, adding that a few incidents were being blown out of proportion by some Indian politicians to draw comparisons with terror outfits like the Laskhar-e-Taiba.
Bhagwat said that even Pakistan did not dare call Hindus terrorists. “But our leaders have talked about Hindu terrorism,” he said, adding that by doing so these leaders were weakening the country’s position at the international level. “They are sacrificing the interest of the country to pursue their personal interests,” he said.
Without naming the Congress, he said that those with evil intentions make noise, while those with a noble spirit do their work quietly. “Sometimes they test the tolerance and patience of those who are noble and the consequences of doing so are disastrous. Even in this case, the consequences will be disastrous,” he warned.
Bhagwat said Hindutva is the identity of the country, a thought that unites the country. It symbolises the values that unite humanity and fills life with joy. “The RSS is trying to unite Hindus and the organisation wishes everybody’s welfare,” he said.
Industrialist and president of the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture, Abhay Firodia, was the chief guest. Prominent businessman Raghunathrao Chitale, chief director of Rashtra Sevika Samitee Pramilatai Medhe, VSS camp incharge Bajaranglal Gupt, convenor of international division of RSS Shankararao Tatwavadi and chief of Pune division of RSS, Mohan Ghaisas were present.
——–Agencies