Bhagwat Flags Security, Pushes Self-Reliance After Pahalgam Attack
During the Vijayadashami Utsav held as part of the RSS centenary celebrations in Nagpur, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat spoke strongly about national security, economic sovereignty and recent cross-border terror.
Bhagwat referred to the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, in which terrorists reportedly killed 26 Indian pilgrims after asking about their religion, and said it exposed fissures in global solidarity. He praised the government, defence forces, and society for responding firmly, and described “Operation Sindoor” — a security response undertaken after the attack — as evidence of India’s readiness to defend its people.
He warned that India must remain vigilant against both external threats and internal instability. Citing unrest in neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, he cautioned that violent protests rarely lead to real change, calling them part of a “grammar of anarchy.”
Bhagwat also criticized the United States’ tariff policy, stating that while the U.S. may act in its interest, its measures affect many nations. He urged India to embrace Swadeshi (indigenous production) and self-reliance, and cautioned that dependence should not become compulsion. He said India must engage with the world but on its own terms.
In addition, Bhagwat emphasized India’s tradition of diversity, rejecting an “us versus them” mindset. He said expressing differences is acceptable only within legal bounds and that provoking communities is not justified.
The event also saw former President Ram Nath Kovind as chief guest, and included religious observances such as Shastra Puja.
