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RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that India is a peaceful country but if terrorists attack its citizens, the nation has to give an answer.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat (PTI Image)
Reminding India’s civilisational tradition, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that while the ancient Indian scriptures teach Ahimsa (non-violence) and advise against interfering with neighbours, a ruler must act firmly if a neighbour, without provocation, creates disturbance. Protecting the people is an essential part of Dharma, he asserted, adding that non-violence does not mean passivity or helplessness.
Speaking at the launch of Swami Vigyananand’s book — The Hindu Manifesto — in New Delhi, Bhagwat reflected on the importance of awakening societal consciousness. “Bharat does not have an enemy, and Bharat does not envy anyone. But if hooligans or terrorists enter our territory and disturb us, we have to react to that. We have to give them an answer. Even Arjuna fought against his family because it was needed to protect Dharma.”
Referring to his earlier speech in Mumbai, he said, “In my last speech, I mentioned Ravan Vadha (slaying of Ravan). Ravan was a scholar, a great devotee of Lord Shiva, a great king and a great administrator — but he lacked inner goodness. Bhagavan Ram realised Ravan could not be reformed. So, Ravan was ‘freed’ from his current form, so that in his next birth, he could truly absorb knowledge.”
He further added, “Bharatiya (Indian) scriptures taught Ahimsa (non-violence), and instructed us never to interfere with or attack a neighbour. But if a neighbour, without reason or provocation, creates ‘upadrav’ (disturbance or violence), then it becomes necessary to make them understand. A ruler or king must do his Dharma, and protect his people.”
Speaking about the book, Bhagwat acknowledged that the term “manifesto” might cause confusion. He said, “Manifesto usually reminds people of elections, because all political parties release their election manifestos. And then there was another manifesto. We all know what happened after the release of the — Communist Manifesto. But this manifesto is different — it is about awakening society, not about capturing power.”
Hindu Manifesto, authored by Swami Vigyanananda — VHP’s international coordinator and an IIT graduate turned monk — outlines a vision for a strong, culturally confident Bharat that is rooted in Dharma and progress, as written in ancient scriptures.
Taking stock of India’s economic journey, Swami Vigyanananda said, “I always praise our former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao for opening up the economy and opting for liberalisation. Atalji stabilized it. Manmohan Singh ji came and bungled it again. Narendra Bhai (PM Modi) corrected the course.” He emphasised the need for clarity in understanding economic success as vital for national strength.
Vigyanananda also criticised the ingrained suspicion of a section of people toward entrepreneurs and businessmen in Indian society. “People here often look at wealth creators as thieves. But they are employment generators. I dislike this way of thinking. We must dispel this myth,” he said, urging a cultural shift to respect wealth creation.