Mohan Bhagwat Declares India's Future Leadership of the Global South Amid Tariff Controversies

At an RSS event in Lucknow, Mohan Bhagwat stated that India will eventually lead the Global South, asserting that tariffs will not hinder the nation's progress. His remarks highlight India's resilience amid ongoing tensions with the US and China.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat expressed confidence that India will eventually lead the Global South, making it immune to external tariffs. Speaking at an RSS event in Lucknow, Bhagwat emphasised India's potential to stand resilient against international pressures. The term "Global South" refers to developing or less developed countries primarily located in the southern hemisphere.

Bhagwat's remarks come amid recent tariff disputes with the US. He stated, "India will lead the Global South. One day, tariffs won't affect us. India will stand firm and not budge before any nation." These comments were made during the second of two outreach events held in Lucknow.

RSS's Vision for Social Unity

At a separate event earlier, Bhagwat criticised Western nations, particularly the US and China, for spreading fundamentalism. He said their approach is to gain power and eliminate obstacles. "Western countries spread fundamentalism. Their thinking is to become powerful, live on their own, and abandon the rest, eliminating those who become obstacles. This is what America and China are doing today," he remarked at Lucknow University's Malaviya Auditorium.

Bhagwat highlighted social harmony as essential for unity, stating that the RSS prioritises national interest over divisions. He advocated for Hindus to identify themselves by their religion rather than caste or sect. "Hindu dharma is the true human dharma. If there is any truly secular society in the world, it is the Hindu society," he said.

Addressing Caste and Family Values

The RSS leader noted that caste distinctions are diminishing among younger generations. He believes that once caste loses its social significance, politics based on it will also transform. "In the Sangh, nobody's caste is asked. All are Hindu brethren. To eradicate caste from society, we must first forget caste," he stated.

Bhagwat stressed the importance of religious education at home and maintaining family bonds despite distances. He encouraged families to gather annually to preserve traditions and impart values to children. "A good family builds a good society," he added.

Modernity and Temple Management

While acknowledging modernity as part of Indian society, Bhagwat opposed blind westernisation and ostentatious displays of wealth. He advocated for temples to be managed by devotees rather than under government control. "We want temples to be under the control of devotees. Religious leaders and well-meaning people should come together to run them," he said.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad is reportedly working towards this goal, with temple funds aimed at benefiting national interests and Hindu welfare.

Development Initiatives and Character Building

The RSS focuses on character-building and fostering a culture of giving rather than seeking. Bhagwat mentioned that the organisation has initiated development projects in 5,000 villages across India, with 333 showing notable progress. In some areas, residents have established schools up to class 12, resolved disputes amicably, secured land for the landless, and created local employment opportunities.

Bhagwat encouraged people to attend an RSS shakha to gain a better understanding of the organisation's work and called upon well-meaning citizens (sajjan shakti) to support these efforts.

He concluded by asserting that despite challenges, dedicated workers within the RSS remain optimistic about their mission to build individuals and contribute positively to society.

With inputs from PTI