Tue Apr 01 14:55:08 UTC 2025: ## RSS Signals Potential Support for Mathura, Varanasi Temple Disputes
**New Delhi, April 1, 2025** – The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has indicated it would not prevent its members from participating in efforts related to the Krishna Janmabhoomi issue in Mathura and the Gyanvapi mosque dispute in Varanasi. This statement, made by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale in an interview with the Sangh’s Kannada mouthpiece, Vikrama, appears to balance competing internal pressures within the organization.
Hosabale’s comments referenced the 1984 assertion by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and religious leaders regarding the three contested sites – Ayodhya, Mathura, and Varanasi. He stated that the RSS would not obstruct members who wish to participate in efforts concerning these sites.
This statement contrasts with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s 2019 declaration, following the Ayodhya Ram Mandir verdict, that the RSS would not engage in similar future movements, focusing instead on “character building.” Bhagwat further reiterated this stance in 2022 regarding the Gyanvapi mosque controversy, emphasizing adherence to legal processes.
However, Hosabale’s remarks appear to acknowledge the continued resonance of the slogan “Ayodhya is just a trailer, Kashi and Mathura are still to be” among the Hindutva base.
VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal described Hosabale’s comments as a clarification, highlighting the long-standing commitment to the Mathura and Kashi temples and emphasizing the ongoing legal proceedings. He expressed confidence in a favorable outcome. The statement leaves open the possibility of increased RSS involvement in these ongoing religious disputes.
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