The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has faced numerous attempts by the Congress party to ban its activities, yet it continues to thrive due to the unwavering acceptance of the Indian people, stated RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Saturday, November 1, 2025.
Hosabale’s remarks were a direct response to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s controversial statement made on Friday during an event commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary. Kharge had publicly advocated for a ban on the Sangh, starkly likening its ideology to ‘poison’.
Expressing his ‘personal opinion’ openly, Kharge had asserted that a ban on the RSS ‘should be done’ as he believes ‘most issues and law and order problems arise because of the BJP-RSS.’ This statement came in response to a media query drawing parallels to Sardar Patel’s historical ban on the RSS after Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination.
Urging Kharge to reflect on history and past experiences, Hosabale pointed out, ‘They have tried to ban us many times. He should learn from earlier experiences. One of their tall leaders tried thrice to impose a ban on the RSS. What happened to it? The Court and the people both gave their verdict and the Sangh is moving ahead.’
Hosabale emphasized that any call for a ban must be supported by valid reasoning. ‘A ban cannot be done just because someone wishes so. You want to ban the Sangh which works for nation building…,’ he questioned, highlighting the organization’s foundational principles.
These comments were made as Hosabale addressed the media following the conclusion of a three-day annual executive body meeting of the RSS in Jabalpur. During the meeting, key discussions included upcoming centenary year celebrations, the ongoing situation in Manipur, the pervasive issue of drug problems in border regions, and the growing concerns around religious conversions across the country.
Additionally, the RSS general secretary commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Manipur and reiterated that there were no fundamental disagreements or differences between the Sangh and the ruling BJP.
He also praised the significant number of Maoist surrenders, appealing to both society and government bodies to ensure these individuals are offered respect and viable opportunities for rehabilitation and integration.