Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal has faced criticism after making a controversial remark about those who oppose or object to the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ at an RSS-organised youth event in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.

Kunnummal, who was speaking at the ‘Sankalp 2026 Yuva Sangamam’ in Manvila, reportedly said that people who oppose Vande Mataram “do not know who their mother is”. He linked the national song with the idea of India being regarded as a mother. (The Pioneer)

The remarks have triggered a fresh political debate in Kerala, particularly over the participation of university vice-chancellors in RSS-linked programmes.

What the Vice-Chancellor Said

Speaking at the event, Kunnummal reportedly argued that Vande Mataram was connected with the concept of Mother India.

He also spoke about the responsibility of parents to raise children as responsible citizens, with particular emphasis on women and motherhood.

The comments have drawn criticism because of the position held by Kunnummal as the Vice-Chancellor of a state university and because the remarks were made at an RSS-organised programme.

RSS Event Triggers Political Debate

Kunnummal's appearance at the RSS programme has added to an existing political controversy in Kerala over his association with events linked to the organisation.

Opposition political formations in the state have previously questioned his appointment and accused the government and Governor's office of allowing the education sector to be influenced by the RSS.

Student organisations, including the Students' Federation of India (SFI) and Kerala Students' Union (KSU), have also criticised Kunnummal's participation in RSS-related programmes and accused him of promoting what they describe as an RSS agenda.

Kunnummal's latest comments have therefore become part of a wider debate over political neutrality and the role of university officials in public events.

Vande Mataram Debate Intensifies

The controversy comes at a time when Vande Mataram has received renewed attention at the national level.

The Centre has introduced new protocols governing the performance of the national song. Where both Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are performed at an official event, Vande Mataram is to be performed first, followed by the national anthem. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued detailed instructions concerning the rendition and protocol of the national song. (Ministry of Home Affairs)

The issue gained further significance after Vande Mataram was sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort during the 80th Independence Day celebrations on August 15, marking the first such rendition at the venue. (The Times of India)

Legal Protection Expanded

The controversy also follows a recent change in the legal framework surrounding the national song.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed by Parliament and subsequently received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu. The amendment provides statutory protection to Vande Mataram, with intentional disrespect or obstruction of its singing made punishable under the amended law. Reports on the legislation state that the punishment can extend to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. (News on Air)

However, the legal protection of the song and debates over its performance are separate from the political controversy surrounding Kunnummal's remarks.

Kerala Schools Also in Debate

The issue has also surfaced in Kerala's education system. The state's General Education Department issued Independence Day guidelines requiring schools to hoist the national flag and sing Jana Gana Mana, but did not issue a direction making Vande Mataram compulsory for the August 15 celebrations. (The Times of India)

This has added another layer to the ongoing discussion in the state over the role of Vande Mataram in educational and official functions.

Debate Over University Neutrality

The latest controversy is likely to keep attention focused on the political activities and public statements of university officials in Kerala.

While Vande Mataram remains an important symbol associated with India's freedom movement and has received enhanced statutory protection, Kunnummal's remarks have shifted the immediate discussion towards whether a serving university Vice-Chancellor should make such politically charged comments at an RSS event.

The controversy is expected to continue as political parties and student organisations respond to the statement.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged greater engagement with India's younger generation, saying members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha should not be labelled "anti-national" for expressing their concerns. Addressing a youth interaction in Mumbai, Bhagwat said dialogue, trust and understanding were essential to bridge the gap between institutions and young people.

Speaking at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) on Thursday, the RSS chief described the country's youth as patriotic and honest, stressing that they represent India's future and deserve to be heard rather than alienated.

'They Are Our Own People'

Responding to a question on youth-led protests, Bhagwat rejected the notion that the younger generation should be viewed with suspicion.

"Anti-national to hai nahin, apne log hain. Apni next generation hai (They are not anti-national. They are our own people. They are our next generation)," he said.

He emphasised that disagreements should be resolved through communication instead of confrontation, arguing that sustained interaction helps both sides understand each other's concerns.

Dialogue Over Confrontation

Bhagwat said meaningful relationships between institutions and young citizens must precede constructive dialogue.

"I have spoken about dialogue before. There has to be a relationship first. When that relationship exists, there is dialogue. We understand their concerns and they understand ours. That is what should happen," he said.

According to him, engaging with young people is more productive than branding them or dismissing their views, particularly at a time when the country is witnessing increased participation by youth in public debates.

Gen Z More Honest, Patriotic: Bhagwat

The RSS chief also challenged the perception that younger generations are less responsible than their predecessors.

He said Gen Z and Gen Alpha possess a stronger sense of honesty, patriotism and public service.

"I believe this new generation — Gen Z and Gen Alpha — is more honest than our existing generation. It has a stronger feeling of patriotism and service," Bhagwat said.

His remarks highlighted the need to recognise the aspirations of young Indians instead of questioning their commitment to the nation.

Cautions Against Social Media Misinformation

Bhagwat also spoke about the growing influence of social media, saying regulation alone cannot solve the challenges posed by digital platforms.

He said laws become effective only when society voluntarily accepts and follows them, adding that users should exercise self-discipline while consuming and sharing online content.

Warning about the spread of misinformation, Bhagwat noted that artificial intelligence and modern technology now make it possible to create convincing fake videos and attribute false statements to public figures.

He advised people not to trust content without verification from authentic sources and said self-regulation was essential to prevent misinformation from spreading.

According to Bhagwat, outright bans often push content into illegal channels rather than resolving the underlying problem.

Remarks Come Amid Student Protests

Bhagwat's comments come against the backdrop of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, which later expanded into a broader movement demanding reforms in India's examination system and greater accountability in education governance.

The protests eventually intensified political pressure, leading to the resignation of the then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

While Bhagwat did not directly comment on the ongoing controversy, his appeal for dialogue with young protesters was seen as a call for greater engagement between policymakers and the country's youth.

Mumbai: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to interact with more than 2,000 students aged between 15 and 19 years in Mumbai on Thursday evening. The event will be held at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) as part of the 15th anniversary celebrations of the International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN).

The programme is expected to focus on dialogue with young people, leadership, education and the role of youth in shaping the country's future.

Students to Engage Directly with Bhagwat

The session has been designed as an interactive conversation, allowing students from the Gen Z and Gen Alpha age groups to engage with the RSS chief on issues concerning society, education and national development.

Organisers describe the event as a platform aimed at encouraging discussion rather than one-way communication between public figures and young participants.

Several Prominent Personalities Expected

Apart from Mohan Bhagwat, the event is expected to feature several distinguished personalities from public life, including:

• Congress MP Shashi Tharoor

• Veteran actor Shabana Azmi

• Actor Boman Irani

• Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud

The gathering is expected to bring together voices from politics, law, cinema and civil society.

Debate Over Shashi Tharoor's Participation

Shashi Tharoor's participation in the programme sparked political discussion after questions were raised over his presence at an event where the RSS chief is the principal speaker.

Responding to the criticism, Tharoor clarified that the programme is not organised by the RSS, but by IIMUN, an independent student-led platform that regularly invites speakers from diverse backgrounds to interact with students.

Bhagwat Earlier Advocated Dialogue with Youth

The upcoming interaction comes weeks after Bhagwat stressed the importance of engaging with younger generations through conversation rather than authority.

During a public address in Delhi in July, he said today's youth ask questions and expect meaningful discussions. He suggested that elders should communicate with them through dialogue instead of merely issuing instructions.

His remarks drew attention as they came during a period when student protests over examination-related issues were taking place in different parts of the country.

Focus on Youth Engagement

The programme is being viewed as an important outreach initiative aimed at understanding the aspirations, concerns and expectations of India's younger generation.

With students expected to interact directly with speakers from different fields, the event seeks to promote discussion on leadership, education, public life and civic participation.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday emphasized the need for greater dialogue with the younger generation, saying today's youth are inquisitive and expect explanations rather than instructions. He urged families and society to move away from a dictatorial approach and instead build relationships based on communication and understanding.

Speaking at an event in Delhi, Bhagwat said that changing times demand a different way of engaging with young people.

"Today's new generation asks a lot of questions. Instead of being dictatorial with them, we should engage in dialogue," he said.

He added that people should explain the reasoning behind decisions rather than simply issuing instructions.

'Dialogue, Not Dictation'

Bhagwat stressed that young people respond better when they are treated with respect and involved in meaningful conversations.

He said the role of elders is to guide the younger generation by helping them understand the logic behind decisions instead of expecting unquestioned obedience.

"The right direction can be shown through dialogue. We cannot act arbitrarily and become the masters of everyone through force," Bhagwat said.

According to him, communication is a more effective way of building trust and encouraging responsible decision-making among young people.

'Times Have Changed'

Reflecting on earlier generations, Bhagwat said there was a time when parents' decisions were rarely questioned.

"When we were young, whatever our parents said was considered final. There was no debate. There was faith, and there was no reaction. But times have changed," he said.

He observed that today's youth naturally ask questions and expect clear explanations before accepting any decision.

Bhagwat said this shift should not be viewed negatively but as a reality that families and society must acknowledge.

Youth Need Time, Affection and Understanding

The RSS chief said that along with affection, young people need time and genuine conversations.

He remarked that discussion should replace dictation and awareness should replace unquestioned authority.

"The new generation needs a lot of affection, time, and most importantly, dialogue. Today, we need discussion, not dictation. We need consciousness, not orders," he said.

According to Bhagwat, listening to young people is just as important as advising them.

Concern Over Declining Family Communication

Bhagwat also expressed concern that communication within families has reduced significantly over the years.

He said parents and guardians should spend more time interacting with children instead of relying solely on instructions.

Regular conversations, he said, can help young people make better decisions and strengthen family relationships.

"Communication within families has declined considerably compared to the past. Families and society will have to spend time with young people and listen to what they have to say," he added.

Remarks Come Amid Student Protests

Bhagwat's comments come at a time when students in Delhi have been protesting over alleged examination paper leaks and demanding reforms in the country's recruitment and examination systems.

While he did not directly refer to the protests, his remarks on dialogue, listening, and avoiding authoritarian attitudes were made against the backdrop of growing public discussions involving youth participation and governance.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday said people who came to India from Pakistan after the 1947 Partition should not be called refugees. They were “warriors of struggle” who chose India over generations of land, businesses, and property.

Addressing the 75th foundation day of Sindhu Education Society in Nagpur, Bhagwat said these migrants came to India because it was a place where they could practise their faith without fear. “We all failed in the fight to keep India united, but they did not lose their faith,” he added.

Bhagwat emphasised that education should not be limited to securing employment but should focus on creating good human beings. He said the ability to distinguish right from wrong comes not only from books but also from the conduct and values of teachers.

He also urged people never to surrender to circumstances or fate, saying those who confront difficulties move forward while those who run away accept defeat even before the battle begins.

As part of the RSS centenary celebrations, Bhagwat announced that 100 videos highlighting the lives of RSS pracharaks will be released on Friday. On the same day, a YouTube video titled Dr Hedgewar: Adhunik Yug Ke Shalivahan will also be released.

On July 5, Bhagwat will inaugurate the Sanmarg Mind Wellness Centre in Nagpur, with Devendra Fadnavis and Nitin Gadkari expected to attend.

The RSS also announced that its All India Prant Pracharak meeting will be held in Belagavi from July 10 to 12.

The alleged theft of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has taken a dramatic turn, with the investigation widening, internal differences emerging within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, and authorities preparing strict action against the accused. As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe, fresh allegations, political reactions, and possible demolition of illegally constructed properties have intensified the controversy.

In a significant development, Trust trustee Mahant Dinendra Das Maharaj publicly blamed Ram Mandir construction in-charge Gopal Rao for the situation. He alleged that Gopal Rao had created confusion within the Trust and accused him of "playing politics." Mahant Dinendra Das also claimed that Gopal Rao does not follow the traditional customs associated with Lord Ram, adding that the responsibility for the controversy rests with him.

The remarks mark the first visible public disagreement among senior members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust since the donation theft case surfaced. Gopal Rao, originally from Karnataka, serves as the temple's construction in-charge and is an invited member of the Trust.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government is reportedly preparing stringent action against those accused in the case. According to official sources, the Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has identified several residential properties allegedly built in violation of building regulations or without approved maps. These properties, reportedly linked to the accused, may soon face demolition proceedings after the issuance of legal notices.

Among the structures under scrutiny are the under-construction residence of accused Lavkush Mishra in Shahadatganj and the house of Anukalp Mishra in Kaushalpuri. Authorities are examining whether these properties were constructed after the accused became associated with temple-related work and whether they comply with local development regulations.

The investigation has also received a fresh lead after a video surfaced allegedly showing Amit Shukla, brother of accused Avinash Shukla, holding bundles of currency notes. Police have confirmed that the authenticity of the video is being verified as part of the ongoing investigation.

The SIT, whose tenure has now been extended until July 15, continues to expand the scope of its inquiry. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approved the extension after investigators sought additional time to complete a detailed probe. The SIT had earlier submitted its preliminary findings to the Home Department on June 23.

Investigators have already questioned several key individuals connected with the Trust. General Secretary Champat Rai was interrogated for nearly three hours, while further questioning of trustee Dr. Anil Mishra is expected to verify details regarding the appointment of accused employees Lavkush Mishra and Anukalp Mishra.

The case first came into public focus on June 7, following allegations of large-scale embezzlement of temple donations. An SIT was constituted on June 13, and an FIR was registered on June 25, leading to the arrest of eight individuals allegedly involved in the misappropriation of donation funds.

Police investigations have revealed substantial cash recoveries from the accused. Officials recovered nearly ₹79.85 lakh in cash, 1,121 US dollars, and gold and silver ornaments from various locations linked to the accused. According to investigators, several of the accused allegedly acquired properties worth crores using the misappropriated donation money.

Among those arrested are Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Avinash Shukla, Karunesh Pandey, Manish Yadav, Ramshankar Mishra, and Subhash Chandra Shrivastava. They have all been remanded to 14-day judicial custody.

The probe has also extended to banking transactions. Police have sought account details of employees from multiple branches of the State Bank of India in Ayodhya to examine financial transactions and identify any wider network linked to the alleged embezzlement.

Adding another dimension to the case, a report prepared by RSS functionary Anil Kumar has reportedly been submitted to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat after reviewing temple administration, Trust functioning, and the alleged financial irregularities. Sources indicate that the report could influence discussions during the upcoming Trust meeting scheduled for July 6 in Ayodhya.

Political reactions have also intensified. Uttar Pradesh BJP president Pankaj Chaudhary said that anyone found guilty would not be spared, irrespective of their position. Union Minister S.P. Singh Baghel stated that crimes involving religious institutions evoke stronger public emotions and asserted that the SIT investigation would bring out the complete truth. State ministers Dayashankar Singh and Dharamveer Prajapati also expressed confidence that the investigation would proceed impartially and all facts would emerge.

As the investigation progresses, authorities continue to examine financial records, property documents, CCTV monitoring systems, and the functioning of the temple's donation management process. The outcome of the SIT's final report is expected to determine the next course of legal and administrative action in one of the most sensitive cases involving the Ram Mandir Trust.

Congress leader says 'corruption cannot be accepted in Ram's name'; addresses 10-day DCC training camp valedictory

Congress national media and publicity department chief Pawan Khera arrived in Raipur on Sunday night for the valedictory function of the party's 10-day residential training camp for District Congress Committee (DCC) presidents. Even before he addressed the gathering, Khera launched a blistering attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), asserting that the organisation had no contribution to India's freedom struggle.

"Organisations like the RSS have never participated in the freedom movement. They have only worked to weaken the country and Hindu society," Khera told reporters upon his arrival.

Taking aim at RSS senior pracharak Indresh Kumar's recent remarks on Mahatma Gandhi, Khera said he would not waste much time responding to such statements, adding that issues concerning the public were far more important.

 'Corruption in Ram's name unacceptable'

The Congress leader also trained his guns on the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust amid the ongoing donation controversy. Khera questioned the functioning of the temple trust, alleging it was constituted under RSS influence and oversight, with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) also keeping a watch on its activities.

"Corruption in the name of Lord Ram cannot be accepted," Khera said, linking the trust to what he described as a pattern of irregularities in temple administration.

The controversy relates to the resignation of Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra following allegations of misappropriation of donations. Khera has previously questioned the RSS and the Centre's role in temple administration, demanding an impartial probe.

 Training camp concludes in Raipur

The 10-day training camp, which began on June 20, saw participation from newly appointed DCC presidents from across the country. The camp focused on organisational strengthening, election preparedness, media management and better public communication.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, had earlier visited the camp in Abhanpur on Sunday, spending 40 minutes with senior leaders and holding direct interactions with district and city presidents.

Khera praised the training initiative and called for similar camps to be conducted nationwide. "Such a long camp was organised, in which Rahul Gandhi also came," Khera told reporters.

 Political context

The Congress attack comes at a time when the party is looking to rebuild its organisational structure ahead of upcoming elections. The Raipur camp was seen as a key initiative to align district-level leadership with the party's central messaging.

Earlier, on June 19, Khera had launched a scathing attack on the RSS, backing Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge's call for the RSS to register as an organisation and operate under the Constitution.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, meanwhile, used the occasion to criticise the Congress over the 1975 Emergency, accusing Indira Gandhi of suppressing constitutional rights.

Senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh launched a scathing attack on the Central government, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Saturday over alleged financial irregularities and donation theft at the Ram Mandir Trust. Speaking at a press conference in Ujjain, Singh labeled the trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, as "corrupt" and demanded the immediate registration of an FIR against him.

Singh argued that since the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was directly constituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ultimate accountability for any financial discrepancy rests with the Prime Minister's Office.

Massive Awareness Campaign Across 609 Panchayats

The veteran leader announced that the Congress party will not let the issue slide and is planning a massive rural outreach campaign to take the allegations to the grassroots level.

Congress Rural Outreach Blueprint (Ujjain District):

├── Target Jurisdiction: 609 Gram Panchayats

├── Operational Units : Specialized sector and mandal-level committees

└── Core Strategy     : Door-to-door distribution of descriptive leaflets

"Congress has formed dedicated committees across all 609 panchayats in the Ujjain district. Our workers will go door-to-door to inform common citizens and Sanatana believers about how the institutional donations meant for Lord Ram's temple were siphoned off," Singh stated.

Serious Allegations Over Gold, Silver, and Foreign Funding

Digvijaya Singh questioned Champat Rai’s credentials and association with religious affairs, alleging that structural auditing has exposed severe mismanagement regarding high-value donations.

"Who is Champat Rai? He hails from Uttar Pradesh and has no inherent background in theology or religious administration. He was an RSS pracharak who was later absorbed by the VHP. The public display of simplicity is a facade. Massive discrepancies have been detected in the accounting of donated silver bricks, jewelry, cash, and foreign contributions," Singh alleged.

He further leveled criticism at the temple's Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony held in Ayodhya, claiming that established Vedic traditions were openly violated. According to Singh, scriptural norms dictate that congregational rituals must be performed by a married couple (sapatneek), whereas individuals not meeting the criteria were permitted to sit for the core rituals.

"RSS Grabbing Mahakal Temple Land," Claims Singh

Turning his focus to local governance, Singh accused the RSS of encroaching upon prime land belonging to the historic Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. He stated that his opposition dates back to the tenure of former BJP Chief Minister Sunder Lal Patwa, who allegedly allotted temple land to an RSS-affiliated wing.

Singh claimed that he had legally challenged the land transfer in court at the time, adding that the organization has built commercial guest houses on temple properties while marginalizing traditional seers and sadhus. "The current administrative ecosystem is so heavily politicized that common devotees cannot even access the premium Bhasma Aarti slots without recommendation letters from the Bajrang Dal," he alleged.

Warning Issued to CM Mohan Yadav Over Land Scams

During the press briefing, the former Chief Minister waved several files and official land registry documents before reporters. While refusing to prematurely disclose individual names, Singh stated that he has received a fresh batch of incriminating documents following recent investigative media reports on local land scams.

Shifting focus to current Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Singh offered sharp political counsel to the Ujjain-native CM.

"The Chief Minister has hoarded an excessive number of portfolios. Bureaucrats and subordinate officers will commit irregularities under his watch, but the constitutional accountability will fall squarely on him. Do not let this happen, because as an active opposition, we are not going to spare you on the floor of the house," Singh warned.

India’s rise as Vishwaguru certain and unstoppable: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Highlighting the successful construction of the Ram Temple as a symbol of national resolve, Mohan Bhagwat urges citizens to embrace Indian traditions to fuel the country's global ascent.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday asserted that India’s journey toward becoming a ‘Vishwaguru’ (global teacher) is an inevitability that cannot be stalled. Speaking at the National Cancer Institute in Nagpur, Bhagwat drew parallels between the skepticism surrounding the Ram Mandir and the current skepticism regarding India’s global status.

The RSS chief was addressing a gathering during the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony for the Bharat Durga Shakti Sthal temple. He noted that just as the grand temple in Ayodhya now stands manifest despite decades of doubt, India’s moral and cultural resurgence is a factual reality. This India News Update highlights a growing emphasis on civilizational identity in the national discourse.

Building on firm resolve

Bhagwat emphasized that the nation's future depends on the collective courage and self-reliance of its citizens. He told the audience that doubting the country’s trajectory is unnecessary if the people remain committed to their internal values.

According to the RSS chief, if the current generation moves forward with a clear resolve, the transformation into a global leader will be visible within their lifetime. He urged the public to live with a sense of purpose that contributes to a "strong and morally empowered" nation.

Rejecting the Western lens

A significant portion of the address focused on the need for intellectual decolonization. Bhagwat argued that the "Western lens," which has dominated Indian thought for over 150 years, is insufficient for understanding the true essence of India.

He suggested that citizens must shed foreign ideological layers to reconnect with Sanatan values. Per his remarks, understanding India requires looking at its history and civilization through its own indigenous perspective rather than through borrowed academic frameworks.

Cultural shift in daily life

The RSS chief linked the concept of a ‘Vishwaguru’ to practical changes in the lifestyle of the common man. He called for a return to Indian traditions in language, attire, and dietary habits.

Bhagwat noted that self-realization begins with small but meaningful shifts in daily behavior. By incorporating Indian culture into routine life, he believes the vision of a self-confident India will move from a conceptual dream to a living reality.

High-profile gathering in Nagpur

The event saw a significant presence of political and spiritual leaders, reflecting the importance of the project. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared the stage with various seers.

Among the prominent spiritual figures were Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, Sadhvi Ritambhara, and Dhirendra Shastri. The ceremony also marked the foundation stone laying for a multi-national hospital within the institute’s campus.

Context of recent statements

This speech follows a series of recent high-profile addresses by the RSS chief. In Mumbai earlier this year, he reiterated that the Sangh considers all residents of India as Hindus in a cultural sense, rather than a narrow religious one.

In late 2023, Bhagwat had spoken in Hyderabad regarding the revival of Sanatan Dharma as a global necessity. He often references the early skepticism faced by RSS founder Dr. Hedgewar to illustrate how persistence leads to national impact.

Future outlook for India

As per the latest Government Updates and policy shifts, the narrative of "Viksit Bharat" aligns closely with the cultural resurgence described by Bhagwat. The focus now shifts to how these ideological goals translate into socio-economic growth.

BJP Seeks FIR Against Kharge Over 'Poisonous Snake' Remark, RSS Also Files Complaint Congress president's Assam rally speech triggers political storm ahead of April 9 assembly elections

Congress Chief Sparks Row in Assam

A major political controversy broke out in poll-bound Assam after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge compared the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" at an election rally, drawing sharp reactions from the ruling party and triggering multiple complaints to the police and the Election Commission of India.

Kharge made the remarks while addressing a rally in Nilambazar in Sribhumi district, likening the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" that, he said, must be eliminated. Referring to a religious analogy, he said that if a poisonous snake appears during namaz, one must stop the prayer and deal with the threat first.

BJP Files Complaint With EC

The BJP on Wednesday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission over Kharge's remarks and demanded removal of what it termed "despicable and derogatory" content from all social media handles and digital platforms. It also urged the EC to issue a show-cause notice to the Congress president and pressed for a public apology for what it called a blatant violation of the model code of conduct.

In its complaint, the BJP stated: "This is not mere political rhetoric but a calculated and reckless appeal that is capable of inciting hatred, disturbing public tranquility, and potentially provoking violence between communities."

FIR Registered at Basistha Police Station

The Assam BJP lodged a formal police complaint against Kharge at Basistha police station in Guwahati. BJP leader Rabjib Kumar Sarmah said the party also intended to forward the FIR to the Election Commission to urge action against Kharge, and demanded that the administration stop such speeches immediately.

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari went further, calling the remarks an act of "direct treason." He accused the Congress of acting in despair due to fear of defeat, saying the party had "directly called for riots" and that the people of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala would not forgive Congress for such statements.

RSS Joins With Separate Complaints

The RSS, through its Uttar Assam Prant and Dakshin Assam Prant units, formally submitted police complaints at Dispur police station in Guwahati and Silchar police station respectively, seeking legal action over allegedly derogatory, provocative, and communally sensitive statements made during the rally.

The RSS, in its complaint, asserted that the remarks constituted a corrupt electoral practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and alleged criminal intimidation as well as promotion of enmity between communities.

Congress Defends the Speech

Priyank Kharge, Karnataka minister and son of the Congress president, defended his father's remarks. He questioned whether one would feed a poisonous snake or drive it away, arguing the remarks were being misrepresented for political purposes. Kharge himself later clarified that his words targeted the "ideology" of BJP-RSS, which he described as harmful to the country.

Shah Hits Back With Poll Warning

Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded sharply, saying voters would settle scores through their ballots. He predicted that after April 9 — the date of the Assam assembly election — Congress would not be visible "even with binoculars," signalling the BJP's confidence ahead of the crucial state polls.

Kharge's Gujarat Remark Also Draws Fire

The controversy compounds troubles for Kharge, who was already under criticism for separate remarks made in Kerala calling people of Gujarat "uneducated." He subsequently expressed regret over those comments, saying on social media that his statement had been deliberately misrepresented and that he regretted the words used.

What Comes Next

With Assam voting on April 9, the BJP's complaints to both police and the Election Commission are likely to remain in the spotlight. The EC is expected to examine the seven-page BJP complaint, which covers multiple controversial statements by Kharge, before deciding on any formal action. The political fallout is set to sharpen, as both sides dig in — with the Congress insisting the remarks were contextual and the BJP pushing for a ban on further campaign speeches by the Congress president.

In a stirring appeal at an RSS event in Mumbai on February 9, 2026, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat advocated for Bharat Ratna for Savarkar, India's highest civilian award. "If Swatantra Veer Savarkar is awarded the Bharat Ratna, the prestige of the honour will only increase," Bhagwat stated, emphasizing Savarkar's enduring influence on millions. This call reignites debates on national honors amid ongoing political tensions between ideological groups like RSS and opposition parties.

As India grapples with cultural identity in a polarized era, Bhagwat's push for Bharat Ratna for Savarkar underscores Hindutva's role in modern discourse. With elections looming and heritage discussions heating up, this timely demand prompts reflection on who deserves recognition for shaping the nation.

 Who Was Veer Savarkar?

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883–1966), known as Veer Savarkar, was a pivotal freedom fighter from Maharashtra. Born into a Chitpavan Brahmin family, he championed armed resistance against British rule, enduring harsh imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail.

Savarkar later led the Hindu Mahasabha and coined "Hindutva," envisioning India as a Hindu nation. A prolific writer, he authored books like Hindutva: Who Is a Hindu? His legacy divides opinions: admirers praise his nationalism, while critics, including Congress leaders, decry his mercy petitions and ideology.

Historian Vikram Sampath notes Savarkar's non-vegetarian habits and pragmatic views on cow protection, seeing it as a cultural symbol rather than sacred. Savarkar clashed with Gandhi on non-violence, citing the Bhagavad Gita to justify force in duty.

Savarkar's Ties to RSS: Fact vs. Myth

Contrary to popular belief, Veer Savarkar wasn't an RSS member or founder. The RSS, established in 1925 by K.B. Hedgewar, drew indirect inspiration from Savarkar's 1923 book on Hindutva. His brother Ganesh was an early associate, but tensions arose under M.S. Golwalkar.

Sampath highlights Savarkar's quip mocking RSS workers' lives as routine-bound. Despite differences, Bhagwat's endorsement bridges this gap, signaling RSS's evolving narrative on nationalist icons.

Controversies in Bharat Ratna History

The Bharat Ratna for Savarkar isn't the first debated award. Past recipients sparked outcry:

- K. Kamaraj (1976): Posthumous honor criticized as election ploy.

- M.G. Ramachandran (1988): Accused of vote-bank politics.

- B.R. Ambedkar (1990): Seen as Dalit outreach.

- Subhas Chandra Bose (1992): Family rejection over unconfirmed death.

- Sachin Tendulkar (2013): Timing questioned amid his Rajya Sabha role.

These cases show awards often fuel political storms, as with potential Bharat Ratna for Savarkar.

 Bharat Ratna Criteria: Who Decides?

Instituted in 1954, the Bharat Ratna recognizes exceptional service in any field. Eligibility is open to all, with no formal nominations needed. The Prime Minister recommends to the President, limited to three annually.

Recipients get a certificate, medallion, and perks like state guest status, diplomatic passport, free Air India executive travel, and 7A precedence ranking.

Bhagwat quipped he'd urge committee members if possible, but decisions rest with top leadership.

Why This Matters Now: Takeaways for Readers

In 2026's cultural climate, Mohan Bhagwat's call for Bharat Ratna for Savarkar amplifies Hindutva debates. It challenges readers to assess historical figures beyond partisanship. Expert Sampath urges nuanced views: "Savarkar's ideas shaped India, but context is key."

Practical takeaway: Engage in civic discourse—read Savarkar's works, attend heritage events, or petition leaders on awards. As India evolves, such honors reflect our collective memory. Will Savarkar join the ranks? The debate continues, enriching national dialogue.