Naidu defends RSS, says no need to object to its principles

Vice-President, Venkaiah Naidu recalled his association with the RSS and said that it was all about self-discipline, self-respect, self-reliance and social reform. His comments were made while delivering the 8th Nanaji Memorial lecture at the Maharashtra Sadan.

Naidu's comments come at a time when the Congress is divided over the invitation to former President of India, Pranab Mukherjee to attend an RSS event.

I see no reason for anyone to have an objection to these principles, which are aimed at character development, Naidu also said.

While talking of Nanaji Deshmukh and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, it would be in order to know how their vision and philosophy had evolved. "I think it is essentially their strong nationalistic fervour and idealism which distinguished them from many other leaders. This passion has its roots in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and its ideological moorings," he said.