CRI Slams Mohan Bhagwat’s Divisive Rhetoric

The Conference of Religious India (CRI) has strongly condemned RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent statement, where he claimed that former President Pranab Mukherjee praised the "Ghar Wapsi" program, saying it prevented Adivasis from becoming "anti-national."

The CRI slammed Bhagwat's remarks as "totally unwarranted" and a "blatant and manipulative attempt" to denigrate Adivasis, demonize the Christian minority, and divide the country on religious lines.

The CRI pointed out several inconsistencies in Bhagwat's claim, including the fact that Mukherjee never publicly endorsed the "Ghar Wapsi" programme during his presidency. Additionally, the CRI questioned the timing of Bhagwat's revelation, coming years after Mukherjee's death in 2020.

The statement has also drawn ire for its patronizing tone towards Adivasis, implying that they need to be "brought back" to the Hindu fold. The CRI emphasized that Adivasis have their own distinct religions and beliefs and that such comments are an affront to their rights and dignity.

Furthermore, the CRI condemned Bhagwat's attempt to equate "anti-national" with "Christian," calling it a gross violation of India's secular and democratic principles. The organization demanded that Bhagwat and his ilk cease their hate-filled rhetoric against Christians and other minorities.

As India celebrates the 75th year of its Constitution, the CRI urged Bhagwat to respect the country's pluralistic, secular, and democratic fabric. The organization called for the protection of fundamental rights for all citizens, regardless of their religion or background.

By Fr Suresh Mathew