India Stronger, But Under Siege: Bhagwat Sounds Alarm on Global and Domestic Threats in Dussehra Speech

In his annual Vijayadashami address, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized the growing strength and international respect that India has garnered in recent years. Speaking at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary celebration in Nagpur, he praised the nation’s increasing credibility but warned of ongoing internal and external challenges. Bhagwat claimed that India’s resolve is being tested by “sinister conspiracies,” both domestic and international, which aim to destabilize the country. He stressed the importance of a strong national character, calling it the foundation for any nation’s success.

Bhagwat expressed concern over a narrative reportedly circulating in Bangladesh, which portrays India as a threat and encourages an alliance with Pakistan for defense purposes. He highlighted the instability in Bangladesh, describing a dangerous rise in fundamentalism that poses a threat to minorities, including Hindus. According to Bhagwat, Hindus must unite in the face of these challenges, as weakness and disorganization make communities vulnerable to oppression. “Being unorganised and weak is like inviting atrocities by the wicked,” he remarked.

He also addressed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, expressing concern about how far the conflict might spread. Though the situation is distant geographically, Bhagwat warned that the consequences of such international tensions could reverberate globally, including in India. He stressed that vigilance is necessary in an increasingly interconnected world.

In discussing internal issues, Bhagwat criticized what he described as divisive political forces within India, where self-serving party interests have taken precedence over national unity and integrity. He condemned the rise of ideologies like “wokeism” and “cultural Marxism,” which he believes threaten India’s traditional cultural values. He labeled these ideologies as part of a larger “deep state” effort to undermine cultural traditions globally.

Bhagwat also pointed to the recent peaceful elections in Jammu and Kashmir as a positive sign of India’s growing stability. However, he raised concerns about growing political and criminal nexuses, referencing the Kolkata rape-murder case as a shameful example of how this problem is eroding society. He condemned attempts to protect criminals and emphasized that the country’s long-term growth and stability depend on the integrity and unity of its people.

Concluding his speech, Bhagwat called for inspiration from historical figures like Ahilyabai Holkar and Birsa Munda, who devoted their lives to national welfare, urging citizens to prioritize the nation above all else.