In a significant revelation, the Indian National Congress on Thursday cited excerpts from historical texts to assert that Mahatma Gandhi described the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a ‘communal body with a totalitarian outlook.’ This statement coincides with the RSS celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh made the claim during a post shared on X, mentioning that Pyarelal, a close aide to Gandhi for nearly three decades, recorded this characterization. Ramesh highlighted that Pyarelal served as Gandhi’s secretary after Mahadev Desai passed away in 1942.
Ramesh pointed out that Pyarelal’s account of Gandhi’s thoughts has become a crucial reference in understanding the leader’s views. He referred to the first volume of Pyarelal’s work, ‘Mahatma Gandhi: The Last Phase,’ published in 1956 and noted for its introduction by then President Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
He elaborated on the second volume, published in 1958, where on page 440, Pyarelal recounts a conversation from September 12, 1947. In this discussion, Gandhi purportedly labeled the RSS as a ‘communal body with a totalitarian outlook.’ This revelation from the Congress adds a historical dimension to contemporary discussions surrounding the organization.
Additionally, Ramesh referenced an earlier incident in which Sardar Patel, the then Union Home Minister, imposed a ban on the RSS five months following Gandhi’s comments. He further criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent praise of the RSS by reminding him of Patel’s warning regarding the organization’s atmosphere that allegedly facilitated Gandhi’s assassination.
In a pointed remark, Ramesh questioned whether PM Modi was aware of Patel’s correspondence with Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee dated July 18, 1948. He shared excerpts from this letter, where Patel remarked that the RSS and the Hindu Mahasabha’s associated activities fostered an environment conducive to Gandhi’s murder.
Patel’s letter contained ominous assertions: ‘Our reports confirm that, as a result of the activities of these two bodies, particularly the former, an atmosphere was created in the country where such a ghastly tragedy became possible.’
Ramesh attached further gravity to Patel’s concerns, stating, ‘The activities of the RSS constituted a clear threat to the existence of the government and the State.’ He pointed out that, despite the ban, reports indicated the RSS’s defiance and continued engagement in subversive activities.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Ramesh referenced a public gathering addressed by Sardar Patel in Jaipur on December 19, 1948, where he passionately condemned the RSS’s actions.
Interestingly, PM Modi had recently praised the RSS for its contributions to nation-building during the organization’s centenary celebrations. He emphasized that the RSS has never displayed bitterness despite facing attacks and continues to adhere to the principle of prioritizing the nation.
This dialogue between the Congress and the ruling party underscores the ongoing political tensions surrounding the RSS. The Congress party’s invocation of Gandhi’s perspective, coupled with historical references, aims to reiterate the ideological rift between the two political factions. As the debate unfolds, it highlights differing interpretations of historical events that continue to shape contemporary Indian politics.
