The RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat, stated that positions within the organization are based on merit rather than caste affiliation, emphasizing that being Hindu is essential for leadership roles.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), celebrating its 100th anniversary, has been highlighted by its chief, Mohan Bhagwat, during a recent event in Mumbai. Bhagwat emphasized that the RSS does not operate on community-based representation; instead, promotions are merit-based and depend on the volunteer's work within the organization. He clearly stated that being Hindu is a prerequisite for the top leadership role, although one's caste will not be a barrier.
Mohan Bhagwat's remarks suggest that the RSS aims to promote inclusivity by allowing individuals from various backgrounds, including Scheduled Castes and Tribes, to ascend to leadership positions, irrespective of their caste heritage. He firmly believes that the criteria for selecting leaders should focus solely on capability rather than caste or community affiliations. This approach reflects a significant ideological stance, as it seeks to diminish caste constraints while maintaining a specific religious requirement for leadership.
The RSS, established in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, is regarded as the world's largest volunteer organization. Bhagwat's comparison of the journey within the RSS to that of a corporate ladder or political election highlights the rigorous discipline and commitment expected of volunteers. By communicating these principles, Bhagwat not only reiterates the organization’s commitment to meritocracy but also underscores its philosophical values regarding community, service, and nationalism in the broader context of Indian society.
