Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp critique of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday, labelling his statement that India attained “true independence” after the consecration of the Ram temple as “treason” and an insult to all Indians.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new Congress headquarters, Indira Gandhi Bhawan, in New Delhi, Gandhi said, “Mohan Bhagwat’s remark is an affront to the independence movement and the Constitution. To say that India did not achieve independence in 1947 disrespects the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and insults every Indian.”
Gandhi further said, “Such statements question the validity of the Constitution and the fight against colonial rule. In any other country, someone making such a claim publicly would face legal action.”
On Monday, Bhagwat claimed that India’s “true independence” was realized with the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He argued that while India achieved political independence in 1947, the spirit of the country’s vision was not honoured in the governance thereafter. Bhagwat suggested that the date of the Ram temple consecration should be commemorated as Pratishtha Dwadashi, symbolizing Bharat’s liberation from centuries of foreign attacks.
The remarks have drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut cautioned against politicizing the name of Ram Lalla, while Rahul Gandhi condemned Bhagwat’s comments as divisive rhetoric.
“It’s time to stop giving credence to the RSS’s repeated attempts to distort history and diminish the legacy of the freedom struggle,” Gandhi said.
