'Cultural Marxists' spoiling India, claims Mohan Bhagwat; references Manipur violence
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday denounced "cultural Marxism," calling it "selfish, discriminatory, and deceitful," Hindustan Times reported. Speaking at the annual Vijay Dashami event of the RSS in Nagpur, he also cautioned people against attempts to garner votes by inflaming emotions ahead of the general elections next year. Bhagwat also invoked the ongoing Manipur violence at the event, saying some "woke" elements were trying to disturb peace in the country and worldwide.
Why does this story matter?
Bhagwat's statements come ahead of crucial assembly elections in five states and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He reportedly asked people to think with a calm mind as to who is good for them before voting. Notably, the event was attended by senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The RSS members also organized a Path Sanchalan (route march) in Nagpur earlier on Tuesday.
Bhagwat's claims on objectives of cultural Marxists
Bhagwat claimed that "cultural Marxists" profess to pursue noble objectives, but their actual goals were to dismantle order, morality, benevolence, culture, dignity, and restraint worldwide. "Their modus operandi involves taking control of the media and academia, and plunging education, culture, politics, and social environment into confusion, chaos, and corruption," he claimed. The RSS chief also said some "woke" forces wear different cloaks and divide people for sectarian interests.
On Manipur violence and elements of national integration
In his address, Bhagwat also referenced the ongoing violence in Manipur, where nearly 200 people have been killed in the ethnic clashes between the majority Meiti community and tribal Kukis. He questioned who benefited from disrupting the peaceful environment and which groups were trying to incite animosity and conflict. Separately, Bhagwat highlighted three key components for national unity: loyalty to India, pride in ancestors, and common culture. He asserted that even religions originating from abroad must adhere to these principles.
Ram Mandir to be inaugurated on January 22: Bhagwat
Meanwhile, Bhagwat announced that the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be inaugurated on January 22 next year. He urged people nationwide to organize events at temples in celebration of this occasion. Besides Gadkari and Fadnavis, singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan attended the RSS event as one of the chief guests, expressing his enthusiasm and appreciation for being invited. He also expressed gratitude to Bhagwat and the entire RSS family for the invitation.
