RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Explains How Social Unity Led to Decline of Maoism in India

During his engagement with tribal leaders in Manipur's Imphal on Friday, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized the importance of social unity. He reaffirmed that the organization remains "purely dedicated to strengthening society."

While addressing attendees on the second day of his three-day visit to Manipur—his first since the outbreak of Meitei-Kuki conflict in May 2023—Bhagwat clarified that "Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is not against anybody; it is not formed to destroy, but to fulfil society."

He further stated that the Sangh neither participates in politics nor controls any organization remotely.

Commenting on Maoism's decline in India, Bhagwat observed, "Naxalism was at an all-time high; has it ended or not? Why did this end? It ended because the society made up its mind that it's had enough and won't let it continue anymore. The society wasn't passive; the society united with the forces that were fighting against this menace. This gave the forces a boost, and the Naxals were brought under control."

His remarks follow shortly after top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma was killed in an encounter with security forces in Andhra Pradesh. The central government has established March 31, 2026, as the target date for eliminating Maoism completely from the country.

Addressing concerns raised by tribal leaders, Bhagwat characterized their issues as matters of national importance. He emphasized the need for self-reliance and finding solutions within constitutional parameters.

"Issues in a family must be solved within the family. Dialogue must be based on oneness, not contractual bargaining," he stated, while noting that many regional issues and divisions have their origins in colonial-era policies.

Bhagwat also encouraged tribal leaders to take pride in their indigenous traditions, languages, and scripts, urging them to adopt a swadeshi lifestyle grounded in cultural identity.

(With inputs from PTI)