“Struggle Exists, But No Quarrel”
Addressing the third day of the RSS Centenary Lecture Series – 100 Years of Sangh’s Journey: New Horizons, Bhagwat underlined that the Sangh and the government maintain healthy coordination. “Struggle might be there but there is no quarrel. When we talk of compromise, the struggle deepens,” he noted, stressing that constructive differences should not be mistaken for conflict.
Bhagwat emphasised that contradictions in a large democratic system are natural but do not undermine mutual respect. “We have good coordination with the Centre and states… there is no quarrel in any way,” he reiterated.
The RSS chief addressed long-standing allegations that the BJP is directed by its ideological parent. Rejecting this, he said the Sangh only offers suggestions but does not interfere in governance or party strategy. “The party is running the country. They are experts in that. We are not,” he stated, recalling his decades-long experience of leading RSS shakhas.
Bhagwat hinted at delays in BJP’s internal decision-making, indirectly referring to the pending appointment of a successor for outgoing party chief JP Nadda. Without naming individuals, he quipped: “Had we been taking the decisions, would it have taken so long? They should take their own time.”
Collective Decision-Making
He explained that while the RSS and BJP may differ occasionally, both organisations eventually “converge” on major issues. Decisions, he said, are collective in nature and shaped by dialogue rather than unilateral directives. This assurance seeks to counter the opposition’s frequent charge that the Modi government operates under RSS diktats.
Opponents’ Changing Stance
Responding to questions on criticism of the RSS, Bhagwat pointed to examples of former critics who later appreciated the organisation. “We see a change in our opponents in how they see us… from Jayaprakash Narayan to Pranab Mukherjee, people have changed their views on us,” he said.
Observers note that this reference highlights the Sangh’s efforts to project itself as an evolving socio-cultural force beyond partisan politics. The remarks also come at a time when the RSS is celebrating its 100-year journey, seeking to highlight its contribution to nation-building and ideological influence.
RSS at 100: A Defining Moment
The centenary events are being closely watched as they coincide with the BJP’s continued dominance in Indian politics. While both organisations share ideological roots, differences have emerged on policy matters ranging from economic reforms to organisational leadership. Bhagwat’s statement appears designed to affirm unity while acknowledging occasional frictions.
For the BJP, which heads into crucial state elections later this year, the RSS’s endorsement of collective decision-making serves as a balancing message. It reassures party cadres of ideological guidance without undercutting the government’s autonomy.