Mumbai: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said he is prepared to relinquish his role whenever the organisation asks him to, underlining that positions in the Sangh are held in service of work and not as permanent offices.
Speaking during an interactive session held as part of the RSS centenary celebrations, Bhagwat said he had already crossed the age of 75 and had informed the organisation accordingly. However, he added that the Sangh had asked him to continue his responsibilities. “If the organisation directs me to step aside, I will do so immediately. Work, however, never stops,” he said.
Clarifying how the RSS selects its chief, Bhagwat explained that there is no election process for the post. The decision is taken by senior functionaries at various organisational levels, based on availability and suitability. He stressed that the head of the Sangh is always a Hindu, regardless of caste, and is chosen purely on merit.
Addressing questions on caste representation, Bhagwat said neither belonging to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe nor being a Brahmin is a criterion for holding the top position. He noted that the perception of the RSS as a Brahmin-dominated body stemmed from its early history, when its initial work began in regions with a largely Brahmin presence.
“The only standard is who is best suited and available at that time,” he said, recalling that when he was appointed, several capable candidates existed but could not be relieved from their responsibilities.
Bhagwat also spoke about the organisation’s approach to challenges, saying undue focus on adverse situations weakens problem-solving. “Illusions persist when truth does not come out. Our effort should be towards solutions,” he remarked.
In a lighter moment, he said the RSS does not have a culture of retiring its volunteers. “We take work till the last drop of energy,” he quipped, adding that the Sangh’s focus remains on nurturing values rather than publicity or political campaigning.
On language, Bhagwat reiterated that English would not become the primary medium of RSS functioning, though it is used where required. He emphasised the importance of mastering English without abandoning one’s mother tongue.
Touching upon outreach, Bhagwat said the RSS works geographically rather than targeting specific communities, ensuring that all sections of society are reached organically. He also reaffirmed the organisation’s stance against corruption, saying volunteers are encouraged to support any genuine effort aimed at rooting it out.
The interaction offered a broad insight into the Sangh’s internal functioning, leadership philosophy and its views on inclusivity, language and public engagement.
