RSS backs SIR, says infiltration a serious concern

NEW DELHI: RSS on Friday backed Election Commission’s voter roll revision as a “transparent and impartial” exercise, endorsed the govt’s National Education Policy 2020 and Indian languages initiatives, and flagged infiltration in states like Bengal as a “serious concern” that must be addressed. It also expressed concern over forced religious conversions in the Northeast and the growing drug menace in Punjab, warning that these issues were affecting social harmony.At the end of the three-day Akhil Bharatiya Samanvay Baithak in Jodhpur, RSS prachar pramukh Sunil Ambekar said the Sangh welcomed the EC’s ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR). “Transparent, impartial revision of electoral rolls is necessary… this is a welcome step,” he said.With assembly polls approaching in border states such as Bihar, Bengal and Assam, he underlined that accurate voter lists are essential for “free and fair” elections.BJP national president and Union minister J P Nadda on Saturday attended the conclave where RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was also present, and it is learnt that in-depth deliberations were held on several important issues. On education reforms, Ambekar said NEP was progressing well and had begun to deliver visible change in schools and higher education. “NEP is on the right track. The expected changes in textbooks on language, history and Indian traditions are happening in the right way,” he noted. He stressed that Indian languages should be central to learning, from primary to higher education. “Primary education must be in the mother tongue… Indian languages should also have an important role to play in universities,” he said. Ambekar praised the govt for “taking strong initiatives for Indian languages,” pointing to the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti and publication of books in 22 languages.On security, Ambekar warned against illegal migration. “Infiltration in Bengal is a serious concern. Illegal immigrants are creating unrest. Problems of law and order, and security of Hindus are rising. It is extremely necessary to stop this,” he said. Conversions in the Northeast were causing social tension and needed both legal and social responses, he said. On Punjab, Ambekar highlighted concerns over growing use of narcotics and their impact on youth. “The spread of drugs is a very serious issue, with many harmful consequences. Organisations are working with the govt and police to counter it,” he said.At the same time, he clarified that the Sangh will not agitate on Kashi or Mathura, reiterating RSS chief Bhagwat’s earlier remarks. “Sangh will not launch any agitation. Swayamsevaks, as citizens, may contribute, but the organisation itself will not run a movement,” he said.The conclave brought together representatives of 32 Sangh-affiliated organisations. Ambekar said that the discussions covered education reforms, tribal welfare, women’s participation and preparations for the RSS centenary year. While acknowledging that “many issues remain” to be taken up, Ambedkar insisted that “the overall direction is positive”.