RSS promotes "one nation-one culture" in India

Bengaluru: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has expressed its commitment to promote the idea of "one nation-one culture." During a press conference on Sunday, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale emphasized the importance of carefully choosing cultural icons. He suggested that people should consider figures like Dara Shikoh, who valued Indian culture, instead of historical invaders like Aurangzeb. This announcement came after the RSS concluded its three-day Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) meeting. Hosabale stated that the initiative aims to correct what he described as a "distorted narrative" in history. He believes this approach will help foster a more harmonious and organized India. The RSS plans to launch outreach programs in small communities as part of this initiative, which coincides with the organization's centenary celebrations starting on October 2. Responding to questions about past events, Hosabale mentioned that while India gained independence in 1947, further mental decolonization is needed. He stated that historical figures should be remembered accurately, referencing the renaming of Aurangzeb Road in Delhi as Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road as an important move. On recent developments in Karnataka regarding reservations for Muslims in civil contracts, Hosabale raised legal concerns. He argued that the Constitution does not support reservations based on religion, pointing out that similar laws have been overturned by the Supreme Court in the past. He welcomed initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged groups, like Scheduled Castes and Tribes. Hosabale also addressed the outreach efforts of RSS toward minority groups and defended appointments of RSS members as personal assistants to ministers in Maharashtra. He insisted these appointments were made fairly. Regarding other contentious issues like waqf land and electoral boundaries, he said the organization is monitoring the situation closely and would not interfere in the internal matters of the BJP regarding its leadership elections.