At a press briefing following the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) national meet, General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Saturday said there’s a necessity for Hindu unity to “counteract forces that exploit religion, caste, and ideology for divisive purposes”.
Quoting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s slogan, “batengey toh katengey” (divided we fall), Hosabale underscored the role of “societal cohesion in maintaining national integrity”.
“If we discriminate or divide based on language, state, or caste, we will be decimated,” Hosabale stated. He stressed that Hindu unity is “essential for societal resilience”, cautioning, “Those who forget Hindu principles invite disaster and lose their land, families, and places of worship.”
He reiterated the RSS’s “commitment to fostering unity”, noting that it requires more than speeches and must be woven into daily actions and behaviour. Hosabale highlighted growing support from various religious and social organizations, stating, “Hindu unity is for everyone’s good, contributing to global happiness and peace.”
Hosabale also warned against “forces” aiming to divide Hindus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed similar sentiments at a rally in Thane, saying, “Agar hum batenge, toh bantney waley mehfil sajaayenge” (if we are divided, then those who seek to do so would celebrate).
Addressing the ongoing dispute over the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah in Mathura, Hosabale said that the case is pending in court and expressed hope for a swift resolution. He discouraged any actions resembling those in Ayodhya, advising trust in the judiciary.
On the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Hosabale said that it is not an issue limited to any one party or community. He mentioned that a parliamentary committee is currently consulting religious and social groups for their perspectives on the bill. He noted previous amendments to the Waqf Act that granted autonomy, which he believes has led to issues now requiring rectification.
Regarding the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Hosabale conveyed that Chief Minister Adityanath aims to make this year’s event more “impactful and inclusive”, encouraging tribal community participation and framing it as a national celebration of cultural unity.
When asked about potential tensions between the RSS and BJP following remarks by the BJP national president, Hosabale dismissed claims of conflict, saying that the RSS maintains positive relationships across the political spectrum.
On the influence of social media and independent platforms on youth, he called for regulatory measures to mitigate harmful effects while emphasizing the role of families and society in instilling good values. He also highlighted the Sangh’s support for initiatives, including programs to “rehabilitate those affected by issues like religious conversion and ‘love jihad’.”
The meeting reviewed the outcomes of the RSS’s Pratinidhi Sabha held in March, marking 99 years of the organization and setting the stage for centenary celebrations next year. Hosabale outlined initiatives under “Panch Parivartan,” focusing on self-reliance, social harmony, family enlightenment, environmental awareness, and civic responsibility.
The RSS has been expanding its outreach, now operating over 72,000 “shakhas” (branches) across various regions.
