The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) unit in Puducherry organised a rally on October 29, 2023, from Veermapttinam to Ariyankuppam to mark the 99th foundation year of RSS. Following the conclusion of the rally, a public meeting was organised in Ariyankuppam, where RSS’s North Tamil Nadu Organising Secretary S Saravanan addressed the gathering. He expressed deep concerns about forced religious conversions happening across the nation, with Hindus being the primary targets. Saravanan highlighted that this poses a significant national danger, and measures should be taken to safeguard the people.
He noted that earlier, only a specific caste was targeted, but now, individuals from all castes are being affected. This aligns with the viewpoint expressed by the Supreme Court in November of the previous year, which emphasised that forced religious conversions could pose a threat to national security and impinge on the religious freedom of citizens.
It is worth noting that in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, due to the adamant stance of the ruling DMK government and ongoing legal battles, the proposed route march on October 22 and 29 could not take place despite the Madras High Court’s directive to permit the rally. Furthermore, a contempt petition has been filed against the Home Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and the concerned Superintendents of Police (SPS) and Inspectors of Police in this regard.
The event also commemorated the 200th birth anniversary of Saint Ramalinga Swamigal, popularly known as Vadalur Vallalar, and honoured the nationalistic ideas of Swami Vivekananda and Dr BR Ambedkar. The rally witnessed the participation of more than 500 RSS workers and concluded peacefully.
RSS’s Role in Upholding Swami Vivekananda’s Vision
Saravanan spoke about RSS’s commitment to fulfilling Swami Vivekananda’s dream of creating an organisation for Hindus. He cited Swamiji’s call for 100 trained youth to develop the nation, and RSS has taken on this task by training numerous young individuals for the betterment of the country.
He recounted the journey of RSS, which began on September 27, 1925, at a small scale but expanded rapidly in the following 15 years, spreading across the length and breadth of India. Today, RSS has over 40 associated outfits dedicated to serving the nation and its people.
RSS’s Multifaceted Contributions
Saravanan highlighted the multifaceted contributions of RSS, including its efforts against drug abuse, initiatives to strengthen nucleus family relationships, and its active role in disaster response, major train accidents, and during the ongoing pandemic. He attributed the nation’s progress in the right direction to the intellectuals with a commitment to dharma and good thoughts who have guided its leaders and citizens.
Saravanan emphasised the need for Hindus to unite and become a formidable force that the world’s nations would recognise as a “Viswa Guru” (world leader). He called for concerted efforts in this direction.
Saravanan also noted that the RSS plays a role in seeking the resolution of various societal disputes. He mentioned that the consecration of the Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is scheduled for January, signifying an important event for the organisation.
In summary, the RSS rally and public meeting in Puducherry serve as a platform for addressing growing concerns about forced religious conversions and the need to preserve and promote Hindu Dharma in the face of these challenges.
