Our presence is growing across Tamil Nadu, claims RSS

Talking to reporters on the concluding day of the three-day conclave here on Tuesday, Hosabale said, “We have been growing and the number of shakas in southern Tamil Nadu has also increased. Our growth will send strong signals in the state to end the spate of murders of Hindu outfit leaders.” 

A key issue that was discussed at length was to remove the untouchability from the Hindu society. Hosabale opined, “Untouchability is a stigma, a was block in the Hindu society and to social harmony.” 

In this connection, he recalled the RSS chief’s appeal a couple of years ago to eradicate the practice of untouchability by allowing all sections to enter temples, use of common wells and tanks by members of all castes and performing the final rites at crematoriums shunning caste barriers in villages as well as towns across India. 

A survey conducted by the RSS in three states – Andhra Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh — showed that the practice still existed in villages and in the countryside. 

“We have miles to go in changing the mindset. So, in the present conclave we discussed the ways and means to ensure perfect social harmony— a precondition to achieve the constitutional goals of equality, liberty and justice,” he added. 

Pointing out that it would not be easy to end a practice that had been in vogue over 1,000 years, Hosabale felt, “It is only the first step to put an end to the discrimination. This year we have planned to conduct an untouchability survey in a few more states.” 

Commenting about the BJP’s choice of Yogi Adityanath as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, the national joint general secretary said, “It is the prerogative of the leadership of that party and the elected legislators. They have chosen him (Yogi) as per the democratic and constitutional norms.” He pointed out that Yogi was a long-time active member of that party and was also an MP from that state. 

Replying to a question on the reactions to the choice of Yogi Adityanath, Hosabale said “it is up to the BJP and others to reply and defend if there are negative or positive reaction. RSS can only say that whatever has been done is in line with the democratic process. The (UP) government should work for the well-being of the people.”