RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Flags Neighbouring Unrest, US Tariffs And Climate Concerns

Nagpur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, addressing the annual Vijayadashmi rally marking the organisation's centenary, spoke extensively on regional instability, US tariff pressures, internal security, and environmental challenges. The RSS was founded in Nagpur in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. Concerns Over Neighbouring Countries Bhagwat warned that violent regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and more recently Nepal, due to public anger, are a matter of concern for India. He cautioned that similar disruptive forces are active within the country. Stressing democratic methods, he said true transformation cannot come from violence. He added that India's cultural and historical ties with its neighbours make their peace and prosperity a natural priority. Naxalism And Development On the issue of extremism, Bhagwat said the Naxalite movement has been largely contained due to government action and growing public rejection of their ideology. He noted that earlier Naxal popularity stemmed from exploitation, injustice, and administrative neglect. With those gaps addressed, he stressed the need for a holistic plan ensuring justice, development, and harmony. US Tariffs And Swadeshi Reliance Addressing trade challenges, Bhagwat said the new tariff policy by the US reflected its self-interest but had global repercussions. He underlined that no country can survive in isolation, urging India to strengthen swadeshi practices and self-reliance while balancing diplomatic ties. Tributes To National Icons Bhagwat paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries, calling them role models of simplicity, sacrifice, and national service. Response To Pahalgam Terror Attack Referring to the Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 Indians were killed, Bhagwat said terrorists targeted victims after asking their religion. He praised the armed forces for their prepared and strong response, noting the episode revealed India's true international allies while also exposing internal elements trying to destabilise the country. Warning On Climate Change Highlighting environmental risks, Bhagwat criticised the materialistic development model fueling climate change. He pointed to irregular rainfall, glacier melt, and landslides in the Himalayas as warning signs for India and South Asia, stressing the urgent need for sustainable practices.