Senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Ram Madhav has emphasized that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the RSS remain firmly united, dismissing recent speculation of friction between the two organizations. Speaking in an interview with media, Madhav highlighted that both entities operate in separate domains- BJP in politics and RSS in social service; yet share the same ideological foundation.
Madhav also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recognizing the 100-year legacy of the RSS in his Independence Day speech, calling it a significant acknowledgment of the Sangh’s century-long contributions to the nation.
Clarifying Allegations of Friction
Addressing rumors of possible tensions between the BJP and RSS, Madhav called such speculation “baseless” and reiterated that the two organizations work in tandem under a shared ideological umbrella. “These rumors are circulated from time to time. When no other issues are found, the RSS is often cited as a source of friction. But RSS and BJP are united in their ideology and purpose,” Madhav stated.
He added that the BJP operates from a political perspective, while the RSS engages in social work aimed at national development. “We are part of the same ideological family, we maintain close contact, and there has never been any tension,” he emphasized.
RSS’s Role in Social Service
Madhav underscored the Sangh’s commitment to nation-building, describing its work as “man-making” and fostering moral and civic values. He emphasized that the RSS welcomes individuals from diverse political backgrounds, including Congress, while cautioning against politicizing opposition to the organization. “Some political leaders oppose the RSS for short-term gains, but ultimately everyone knows that the Sangh works for the welfare of the Hindu community and the nation while remaining outside political activity,” Madhav said.
He further elaborated that the RSS focuses on character building, social service, and leadership development, providing opportunities at lower organizational levels for people from various political and social backgrounds.
PM Modi’s Tribute
In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to the RSS, describing it as the “largest NGO in the world” and highlighting its century-long dedication to nation-building. “A hundred years ago, an organization was born- the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Its 100 years of service to the nation is a proud and golden chapter. With the principle of ‘vyakti nirman se rashtra nirman’ [from personal development to nation-building], swayamsevaks have devoted their lives to the welfare of our motherland,” the Prime Minister said.
The acknowledgment of the RSS’s contributions in a national address, Madhav noted, sends a strong message not only to RSS volunteers but also to the broader Indian populace, reinforcing the organization’s role in social and civic development.
Concluding his remarks, Madhav reiterated the ideological and operational harmony between the BJP and RSS, dismissing all speculation of tension as politically motivated and emphasizing that the relationship remains strong, mutually supportive, and focused on nation-building.