Reservation structure correct, quota issue shouldn’t be politicised: RSS
NEW DELHI: Days after Mohan Bhagwat kicked up a political storm with his quota remarks, the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) has clarified its stand on reservation policy.
While clearing its stance on the issue, the RSS said it is not against reservations and the concept of quota is an article of faith for them, according to a report of news channel.
“The current reservation structure in India is right in itself,” RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale said, adding that “the issue of reservation must not be politicised.”
RSS’ statement comes a month after its chief Mohan Bhagwat called for ending caste discrimination and said only an equitable society can lead to a strong and proud community.
“Interest groups are formed because we have certain aspirations in democracy. At the same time, we should remember that through interest groups we should not strive to address those aspirations at the cost of others,” he had said.
“We should have integral approach of welfare for all. It is sensible to realise that my interest lies in larger national interest. Government also has to be sensitive to these issues that there should not be any agitations for them,” Bhagwat told Sangh mouthpiece “Organiser” and “Panchjanya” in an interview.
A political row broke out over RSS chief’s call for review of reservation policy with BJP opposing it and distancing itself from its ideological mentor and shared the stand taken by Bihar-based parties which said reservation in India is a “settled issue”.
BJP said it respected 100 per cent the reservation rights of SCs, STs and other backward castes as it was essential for their social and economic development and empowerment.
The BJP was taken aback with Bhagwat’s comments and Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself had to turn the reservation row on its head during an election rally in Bihar.
“I come from an extremely backward class and understand the pain of having been born to a poor woman. I will not allow this to happen. I pledge to protect the rights of dalits, mahadalits and backwards, even if it means sacrificing my life,” he said addressing an election rally in Buxar on Tuesday.
RSS had also clarified that Bhagwat did not speak about existing quota system but said everybody should try to ensure that all weaker sections reap its benefits.
