Onlykashmir.in News Desk
RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Dr. Krishna Gopal on Friday said that rashtra is an indigenous Indian concept and fundamentally different from the Western idea of a nation, which he said originated in Germany and later influenced countries such as the Soviet Union and Pakistan. Addressing advocates at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Ek Samvad programme at the Conference Hall of the Lawyers’ Chambers in the Jammu and Kashmir High Court complex, he stated that India did not disintegrate because its social structure is holistic and rooted in spirituality.
Dr. Krishna Gopal spoke in detail on the concept of Panch Parivartan or Five Transformations and later responded to questions from advocates. The programme was organised as part of the centenary year activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
Retired District and Sessions Judge Virender Singh Bhau was present as the chief guest. Provincial Sanghchalak Dr. Gautam Maingi, senior advocates, and office bearers of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association and the Young Lawyers Association were also present.
Highlighting India’s geographical and cultural identity, Dr. Krishna Gopal said the RSS was founded with this vision. Referring to Atithi Devo Bhavah, he noted that the Indian ethos has also been acknowledged by the Dalai Lama. He said Hindu is not merely a religion and described Hindutva as a continuous flow with no full stop. Quoting RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, he said those who share the nation’s joy and sorrow are Hindus, adding that the RSS today runs nearly 90,000 shakhas across the country.
Referring to RSS affiliated organisations, he cited Vidya Bharati, which runs thousands of schools across India and promotes patriotism along with education. He noted that the present Chief of the Army Staff is an alumnus of Vidya Bharati’s Shishu Mandir schools.
Explaining Panch Parivartan, Dr. Krishna Gopal said the RSS has resolved to focus on social harmony, self awareness, family enlightenment, environmental protection, and civic duties. He said social harmony must begin at home to eliminate discrimination within society.
On environmental protection, he cited the distribution of about fourteen lakh reusable plates and glasses during the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, which helped reduce plastic waste. He said India’s green cover is increasing and stressed the need for national unity.
Responding to questions, Dr. Krishna Gopal said the RSS had a role in the freedom movement and that Dr. Hedgewar had gone to jail twice. He added that while the RSS does not directly participate in movements, its swayamsevaks are free to join any movement in the national interest. On separatism in Jammu and Kashmir, he said such elements must be marginalised. On new UGC regulations, he cautioned against framing laws in haste and stressed inclusivity.
Chief guest Virender Singh Bhau highlighted the 100 year journey of the RSS and said the organisation has worked selflessly for the nation and society.
Earlier, Bar Association President and senior advocate Nirmal Kotwal honoured Dr. Krishna Gopal with a shawl, while Dr. Gautam Maingi honoured the chief guest Virender Singh Bhau.
