"No Difference Between BJP and RSS": AAP's Sanjay Singh Fires Back at Mohan Bhagwat's Remarks
In a bold move, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has stirred a hornet's nest with his recent remarks at the Science City auditorium in Kolkata, West Bengal, during the RSS's centenary celebrations. Speaking on December 21, 2025, Bhagwat categorically stated that it was a "huge mistake" to view the RSS through the lens of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasizing that the RSS has no political agenda. He instead portrayed the RSS as a cultural organization working for Hindu society, national interest, and India's role as Vishwaguru.
Bhagwat's assertions have been met with skepticism by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh, who reacted by claiming, "no difference between BJP and RSS." This assertion is not directly verified across multiple sources, but it highlights the deep-seated concern among opposition parties regarding the perceived close ties between the RSS and the BJP.
Bhagwat's remarks are not the first time he has sought to distance the RSS from the BJP. In the past, he has repeatedly clarified that the RSS is an independent organization working for the betterment of society, and not a political party. However, Bhagwat's words have been met with skepticism by many, who point to the close ideological links between the RSS and the BJP.
The RSS, founded in 1925, marks its 100th year in 2025 with nationwide events like the Kolkata lecture series aimed at countering "misconceptions" from alleged campaigns. The organization positions itself as a cultural organization for Hindu unity and national strength, ideologically linked to the BJP. Many BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are RSS swayamsevaks, which has led to criticism that the RSS is influencing BJP policies on issues like Hindutva, citizenship, and culture.
Bhagwat's remarks come at a time when the RSS is seeking to shift public perception during its centenary celebrations. The organization is highlighting its non-political contributions, including nearly 1,30,000 service schemes run by RSS volunteers without government funds. These projects range from education and health initiatives to disaster relief efforts.
However, Bhagwat's words have also been met with criticism from opposition parties, who view the RSS as the BJP's guiding force. AAP's Sanjay Singh's reaction is just one example of the deep-seated concerns that exist regarding the perceived close ties between the RSS and the BJP. For citizens, Bhagwat's remarks highlight the RSS's service projects as non-political contributions, urging societal involvement.
Politically, Bhagwat's remarks signal that the RSS and the BJP are coordinating without merger, impacting coalition dynamics and Hindu voter mobilization. Public discourse may intensify on the RSS's "Hindu nation" stance, affecting secularism debates and minority perceptions. While there are no immediate policy changes verified, Bhagwat's remarks have set the stage for a heated debate in the run-up to elections.
In the end, Bhagwat's remarks have highlighted the ongoing debate about the RSS's role in Indian politics. While the organization claims to be a cultural organization working for the betterment of society, many remain skeptical about its intentions. As the RSS continues to push for public perception shift during its centenary celebrations, one thing is clear – the debate about the RSS's role in Indian politics is far from over.
📰 Source: Hindustan Times - Politics
