Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday launched a sharp criticism of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, labeling his recent remarks on India's independence as "treason" and an affront to every Indian. Bhagwat&rsquo;s statement that "true independence" came only after the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has sparked significant controversy.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Congress party's new headquarters, Indira Gandhi Bhawan on Kotla Road, New Delhi, Gandhi highlighted the gravity of Bhagwat's comments. "Mohan Bhagwat has the audacity to repeatedly undermine the legacy of our independence movement and Constitution. His assertion that India did not gain independence in 1947 is an insult to the sacrifices of every single Indian," Gandhi said.
He accused Bhagwat of attempting to rewrite India's historical narrative to align with ideological agendas. &ldquo;Such remarks are not only baseless but amount to treason. In any other democratic country, such statements would result in serious consequences,&rdquo; Gandhi added.
Gandhi urged Indians to reject such divisive rhetoric, which he argued seeks to undermine the foundations of India's pluralistic identity.
What Did Mohan Bhagwat Say?
On Monday, the RSS chief claimed that India's "true independence" was achieved on the day of the Ram Mandir's consecration. Bhagwat argued that while political independence was attained in 1947, the "real vision of Bharat," rooted in its cultural identity, had not been realized until the temple&rsquo;s establishment.
He proposed that the date of the temple&rsquo;s consecration be celebrated as "Pratishtha Dwadashi," symbolizing India's liberation from centuries of foreign rule. Bhagwat&rsquo;s remarks included criticism of the Constitution, claiming it was not initially aligned with India's cultural ethos.
Political Reactions
Bhagwat&rsquo;s comments have been met with backlash across the political spectrum. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut remarked, "Ram Lalla belongs to everyone; there should be no politics in his name." Rahul Gandhi&rsquo;s sharp criticism adds to a growing list of opposition voices denouncing the RSS leader's statement.
Observers see Gandhi's comments as part of his broader effort to champion India's historical legacy and challenge attempts to polarize the nation. His speech at the Congress headquarters inauguration emphasized the need to safeguard the values of the freedom movement and protect the Constitution from ideological distortions.
ideological&nbsp; differences battle
This clash underscores the deep ideological divide between the Congress and RSS. With India&rsquo;s democratic values at stake, opposition leaders, including Gandhi, have made it clear they will continue to challenge narratives that seek to redefine the nation&rsquo;s independence and cultural identity.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi

Gandhi labels Bhagwat's Ram Mandir independence statement as treason, calls for accountability

Rahul Gandhi Slams RSS Chief's 'True Independence' Remark

Gandhi labels Bhagwat's Ram Mandir independence statement as treason, calls for accountability

January 15, 2025 | 13:58 IST