
Sat Jan 03 07:04:24 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed prominent citizens in Bhopal on January 2, 2026, to clarify the RSS’s role and mission. He asserted that the RSS is not a paramilitary organization nor is it accurately understood by simply looking at the BJP or affiliated groups. He emphasized that the RSS aims to unite society, instill virtues, and prevent future foreign domination. He countered the narrative built against the Sangh, highlighting the importance of seeking reliable information. Bhagwat stressed the RSS’s independent nature, advocating for self-reliance (“Atmanirbhar”) through the use of “Swadeshi” (local) goods. He acknowledged the historical opposition faced by the RSS and invited people to visit a Sangh ‘shakha’ to gain a better understanding of the organization.
News Article:
RSS Chief Bhagwat Denies Paramilitary Nature, Urges Self-Reliance
Bhopal, January 3, 2026 – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed a gathering of prominent citizens in Bhopal yesterday, emphasizing that the RSS is not a paramilitary organization and cautioning against defining it solely through its association with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or other affiliated groups.
“We wear a uniform, take out marches and do stick exercise. (But) If someone thinks it is a paramilitary organisation, it will be a mistake,” Bhagwat stated, highlighting the unique nature of the Sangh. He asserted that the organization’s primary goal is to unite society and instill values that will prevent India from falling under foreign influence again.
Bhagwat addressed what he called a “false narrative” being built against the RSS, urging people to seek information from reliable sources rather than relying on incomplete online resources. He said the Sangh strives for Bharat’s ‘Param Vaibhav’ (absolute glory) by creating a patriotic environment and instilling values in its ‘Swayamsevaks’ (volunteers). He also added the British were not the first to invade the country. He added that this happened 7 times and “englishmen were the eighth invaders.”
The RSS chief advocated for self-reliance (“Atmanirbhar”) and the use of “Swadeshi” (local) goods to strengthen the Indian economy, urging people to “only buy and use what is made in your land and which renders employment to people of your country.” He clarified that being Swadeshi doesn’t mean isolation but rather prioritizing local production while importing only essential goods on India’s own terms.
Bhagwat touched on the historical challenges faced by the RSS, including opposition from the British government and pressure following India’s independence. He concluded by inviting the public to visit a Sangh ‘shakha’ (branch) to gain firsthand knowledge of the organization. “The best way is to come and understand the Sangh,” he stated.