Erase caste from the mind to end discrimination, says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said that caste-based discrimination can be eliminated from society only when people erase the idea of caste from their minds.

Addressing a public interaction programme organised as part of the RSS centenary year celebrations in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Bhagwat stressed that social reform must begin with a change in mindset.

Reflecting on the origins of the caste system, Bhagwat said that caste was initially linked to profession and occupation, but over time it became deeply rooted in society and turned into a source of inequality and discrimination. “Caste was once associated with work, but later it became rigid and divisive. This rigidity is what led to social discrimination,” he observed.

Highlighting the need for introspection, the RSS chief urged people to take personal responsibility in addressing the issue. “If we genuinely want to end caste discrimination, we must first remove caste from our own minds.

If this is done honestly and collectively, caste-based discrimination can be eliminated within 10 to 12 years,” Bhagwat said, drawing attention to the power of social consciousness over mere legal measures.

Responding to questions from the audience, Bhagwat said the RSS aims to take India to its “ultimate glory” along with society as a whole. He reiterated that the organisation does not function in reaction to any individual, ideology or political party, nor does it see itself as being in competition with anyone. “The Sangh works for nation-building through individual character-building,” he said.

Bhagwat also clarified that the RSS does not seek to expand itself as an organisation for its own sake. “The Sangh does not want to become big; it wants society to become big and strong. Our growth lies in the strength and unity of society,” he remarked.

Encouraging people to understand the RSS more closely, Bhagwat invited citizens to visit local RSS shakhas. “If people want to understand the Sangh, they should come and see our shakhas and our work. There is nothing hidden,” he said.

The event was attended by RSS leaders and volunteers, including Prant Sanghchalak Anil Bhalerao, who was present on the dais. The interaction programme saw participation from people across different sections of society, reflecting the organisation’s outreach efforts during its centenary year.

Bhagwat’s remarks have once again brought the debate on caste and social reform into focus, underscoring the RSS’s emphasis on societal change driven by individual transformation rather than coercion or confrontation.

Also Read: Encounter underway in Kishtwar as security forces engage Jaish terrorists, eight soldiers injured