“It’s RSS Ideology That Killed Mahatma Gandhi, Godse Belonged to RSS”: Congress MP Jairam Ramesh
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has reignited a longstanding political controversy by directly linking the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ideology to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. Speaking at a public event, Ramesh alleged, “It’s the RSS ideology that killed Mahatma Gandhi. Nathuram Godse, the man who assassinated Gandhi, was a product of this ideology.”
Key Points Raised by Jairam Ramesh
Blaming RSS Ideology
Jairam Ramesh emphasized that the ideology promoted by the RSS propagated intolerance and hatred, which he claims led to Gandhi’s assassination. He argued that such ideologies are divisive and contradict Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and inclusiveness.
Godse’s Alleged RSS Connection
Referring to historical accounts, Ramesh reiterated that Nathuram Godse, Gandhi’s assassin, had associations with the RSS. He criticized efforts to distance Godse from the organization, calling it a distortion of history.
Current Context
Ramesh drew parallels between the ideological divide during Gandhi’s time and the present political climate, accusing the RSS and its affiliates of undermining secularism and diversity in India.
Congress’s Stand on RSS
This statement aligns with the Congress party’s longstanding criticism of the RSS, accusing it of promoting divisive politics. Ramesh’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions, with the Congress sharpening its attack on the BJP and RSS in the lead-up to the next general elections.
RSS and BJP’s Response
The RSS and BJP have consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that Godse acted independently and was not associated with the organization at the time of the assassination. They have accused the Congress of using Gandhi’s name to politicize historical events for electoral gain.
Historical and Political Implications
Jairam Ramesh’s remarks have sparked a fresh debate about the ideological roots of Gandhi’s assassination and its relevance to modern Indian politics. This controversy is likely to intensify as political parties gear up for electoral battles, with Gandhi’s legacy continuing to be a central theme in India’s political discourse.
