How RSS Thrived Despite Congress’s Efforts to Suppress It?

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is one of the most influential socio-cultural organizations in India. Founded in 1925 by Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, it has grown into a massive network with millions of volunteers. Over the decades, despite facing multiple bans and severe opposition, especially from the Indian National Congress, the RSS not only survived but thrived. Understanding how the RSS overcame these challenges provides valuable insights into its resilience and influence.

1. Grassroots Network and Community Engagement

One of the primary reasons for the RSS’s survival and growth was its robust grassroots network. Unlike political parties, which often function through centralized decision-making, the RSS operated through thousands of shakhas (local branches). These shakhas were deeply embedded in communities, organizing regular gatherings focused on physical activities, ideological training, and cultural discussions.

Through these activities, the RSS built personal relationships with people from all walks of life. Even when Congress governments banned the organization, the deep-rooted presence of the RSS in local communities ensured that it remained functional. This extensive network acted as a shield against political persecution.

2. Strong Ideological Foundation

The RSS’s unwavering commitment to its ideological vision of Bharatiya Sanskriti (Indian culture) and cultural nationalism was a driving force in its resilience. Inspired by the belief that India’s civilization was rooted in thousands of years of cultural and spiritual heritage, the RSS aimed to revive and protect these values.

While the Congress promoted a secular and Westernized model of governance, the RSS promoted a cultural identity that resonated with a significant portion of the Indian population. Its ideology provided a sense of purpose to its volunteers, encouraging them to persist even in the face of adversity.

3. Volunteerism and Social Service

The RSS is well-known for its commitment to social service. During natural disasters, communal riots, and national emergencies, RSS volunteers were often the first to provide relief and assistance. This proactive involvement in society, through initiatives like free medical camps, blood donation drives, and educational programs, earned the RSS immense goodwill.

In contrast, the Congress’s focus on political governance often distanced it from direct community service. This gave the RSS an edge in maintaining public support, especially when Congress attempted to malign its image.

4. Surviving the Bans

The RSS faced three major bans in its history — in 1948, 1975, and 1992. The first ban came after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, when the government accused the RSS of involvement, despite no evidence linking the organization to the crime. The second ban was imposed during the Emergency in 1975, when Indira Gandhi cracked down on dissenting voices. The third ban followed the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992.

Each time, the bans were met with resilience. During the Emergency, thousands of RSS workers went underground, forming a strong resistance network. They collaborated with other opposition groups to protest the government’s authoritarian rule. This earned the RSS further credibility as a defender of democracy, while the Congress’s reputation suffered due to its authoritarian actions.

5. Effective Leadership and Adaptability

The leadership of the RSS played a crucial role in navigating through political persecution. Leaders like M.S. Golwalkar and Balasaheb Deoras adopted a strategic approach that prioritized the survival of the organization without compromising its ideology.

When faced with bans, the RSS often shifted its operations to focus on cultural and social work rather than political activities. This adaptability made it difficult for the state to justify continued repression. Moreover, the organization’s ability to maintain internal discipline and unity allowed it to weather political storms.

6. Creating a Supportive Ecosystem

The RSS expanded its influence through the formation of various affiliate organizations, collectively known as the Sangh Parivar. These organizations included the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), and numerous others working in sectors like education, labor rights, and tribal welfare.

While the Congress attempted to target the RSS directly, the decentralized nature of the Sangh Parivar made it difficult to dismantle the entire ecosystem. The BJP’s rise as a political force further fortified the RSS’s position, providing it with a platform to influence governance and policy-making.

7. Gaining Public Sympathy

Congress’s repeated attempts to ban the RSS often backfired. Each ban, rather than diminishing the organization, generated public sympathy for it. People saw the bans as politically motivated and authoritarian. The RSS successfully positioned itself as a victim of state oppression, further galvanizing support.

For instance, during the Emergency, the RSS’s role in resisting Indira Gandhi’s regime won it admiration across the political spectrum. When the Emergency ended, the Congress’s credibility was severely damaged, while the RSS emerged stronger.

8. Maintaining a Non-Political Image

Despite its political influence through the BJP, the RSS has consistently maintained its public image as a cultural and social organization. This distinction allowed it to continue its activities even during political crackdowns.

By not contesting elections directly and focusing on ideological and social work, the RSS avoided the label of being a political entity. This strategic positioning provided it with a moral high ground, making it harder for Congress to justify its suppression.

9. Appeal to Cultural Identity

The RSS’s emphasis on cultural pride and the revival of traditional values resonated with large sections of Indian society. At a time when Congress was often perceived as promoting Western ideals, the RSS championed Indian heritage, festivals, and traditions. This cultural appeal helped it establish a loyal support base, particularly among the middle class and rural populations.

10. Institutional Discipline and Cadre Training

The RSS is renowned for its disciplined and dedicated cadre. Its training camps, known as Sangh Shiksha Varg, instill values of selflessness, leadership, and patriotism. This rigorous training ensures that volunteers remain committed even during challenging times.

When faced with bans, RSS cadres often continued their work covertly, conducting ideological sessions and community service without drawing attention. This resilience made it nearly impossible for Congress to eliminate the organization.

Conclusion

The RSS’s ability to thrive despite Congress’s attempts to destroy it can be attributed to its strong grassroots presence, ideological clarity, and commitment to social service. Its resilience during bans, adaptability, and strategic leadership further reinforced its influence.

Moreover, Congress’s authoritarian actions, particularly during the Emergency, damaged its own reputation while bolstering the RSS’s image as a defender of democracy and Indian culture. Today, the RSS stands as a powerful force in Indian society, a testament to its unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.