Bharat Ratna Savarkar Would Boost Award Prestige
- RSS chief backs Bharat Ratna for Savarkar at Mumbai event
- Political debate grows over Bharat Ratna Savarkar demand
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that conferring the Bharat Ratna on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar would raise the prestige of the country’s highest civilian award. He stated that Savarkar, also known as Veer Savarkar, already enjoys wide public admiration. Therefore, he argued that the honour would enhance the value of the award itself.
Bhagwat made these remarks while addressing an event titled “100 Year of Sangh Journey – New Horizons” in Mumbai. He spoke about the long pending demand for the Bharat Ratna Savarkar recognition. Meanwhile, he clarified that he was not part of the decision making committee related to the award. However, he said he would raise the matter when possible.
Speaking on the delay in conferring the award, Bhagwat said, “I am not part of that committee, but if I meet someone, I will ask why it is being delayed. If Savarkar is given the Bharat Ratna, it will be an honour to the award itself, and its prestige will increase. Even without receiving any honour, he already rules the hearts of the people.” His remarks came amid renewed political debate on the issue.
The demand for Bharat Ratna Savarkar has remained a recurring political issue for years. Several leaders and organisations have supported the move. However, the Congress party has strongly opposed it. The party has described Savarkar as a “traitor” due to his mercy petitions to British authorities during his imprisonment in the freedom struggle. In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena have repeatedly backed the demand. They have cited Savarkar’s role as a freedom fighter, writer, and social reformer.
During the same address, Bhagwat also spoke about the ideology and functioning of the RSS. He said the organisation focuses on instilling “sanskar” or values instead of aggressive publicity. “Excessive campaigning leads to publicity, which can breed arrogance. One must protect oneself from it. Publicity should be like rainfall: appropriate in timing and quantity,” Bhagwat said. He added that the RSS has expanded its outreach efforts in recent times.
Bhagwat also addressed language use within the organisation. He said English would not be adopted as the main medium since it is not an indigenous language. However, he clarified its practical use when required. “We want to collaborate with Indian individuals. Wherever English is required, we are willing to use it.,” he said. He further noted, “People should be able to speak English in a way that native speakers will want to listen.” At the same time, he stressed, “We should master English, but that does not mean we forget our mother tongue.”
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