Congress Criticises RSS for Anti-Constitutional Call to Review 'Socialist' and 'Secular' Terms

The Congress has accused the RSS and BJP of being against constitutional values. This follows a call by RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale to review the words "socialist" and "secular" in the Constitution's Preamble. The Congress stated on X that it will resist any such attempts by the BJP-RSS, labelling their ideology as anti-constitutional.

In a Hindi post on X, the Congress expressed its determination to thwart what it describes as a BJP-RSS conspiracy. The party claims that Hosabale's demand to remove "socialist" and "secular" from the Preamble is part of a long-standing plan to undermine B.R. Ambedkar's Constitution. The Congress insists it will not allow these intentions to succeed.

RSS-BJP Ideological Stance

The RSS, which guides the BJP ideologically, suggested revisiting these terms in the Preamble. Hosabale argued that "socialist" and "secular" were added during the Emergency period and were not originally included by B.R. Ambedkar. He noted that these additions occurred when fundamental rights were suspended, and Parliament was inactive.

Hosabale highlighted that although discussions have taken place regarding these terms, no action has been taken to remove them. He suggested reconsidering whether they should remain in the Preamble. This statement was made during an event focused on the Emergency period.

Congress's Historical Claims

The Congress alleged that when the Constitution was first implemented, the RSS opposed it and even burned copies. The party recalled how BJP leaders previously sought over 400 parliamentary seats to amend the Constitution but were rebuffed by voters. The Congress vowed to prevent any future attempts to alter constitutional principles.

In its post, the Congress reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the Constitution, stating, "Hail Constitution." It emphasised its resolve to counter any efforts by the BJP-RSS alliance to change foundational aspects of India's governing document.

The debate over these terms in the Preamble reflects ongoing tensions between differing ideological perspectives in India. As political parties continue to clash over constitutional interpretations, this issue remains a focal point of national discourse.

With inputs from PTI