RSS won’t block volunteers in Varanasi, Mathura temple efforts: Sangh's general secretary Hosabale

NEW DELHI: The RSS will not stop its volunteers from taking part in the efforts to restore

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

in Varanasi and

Srikrishna Janmabhoomi

in Mathura,

Dattatreya Hosabale

, the RSS general secretary, said but emphasised the pointlessness of discovering temples beneath mosques.
He cautioned that such archaeological pursuits might divert attention from crucial social reforms, including the eradication of untouchability and cultural preservation.
Speaking to Vikrama, a conservative Kannada weekly, Hosabale highlighted contemporary societal issues including "conversions, cow slaughter, love jihad", amongst other pressing concerns.
"The Vishwa Hindu Parishad and dharma gurus spoke about three temples. If some swayamsevaks are involved in efforts related to these three temples, Sangh is not stopping them," Hosabale said.

Hindu organisations maintain that Islamic invaders demolished the Srikrishna Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Temple, subsequently constructing mosques at these locations.
Hosabale clarified the Sangh's position on the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, stating they weren't its initiators.
He explained that religious leaders collectively decided to reclaim Ram Janmabhoomi and sought Sangh's backing, which was granted based on cultural significance.
The RSS deputy chief questioned the practicality of investigating temples beneath mosques.
He raised pertinent questions about excavating thousands of mosques and reversing history, wondering if such actions would foster social harmony or create further divisions.
Hosabale emphasised that focusing on the past might detract from addressing crucial social reforms, including eliminating untouchability and preserving cultural heritage.
He reiterated society's current challenges, including "conversions, cow slaughter, love jihad", and other significant issues.
Regarding sacred spaces, he contemplated whether a converted temple-mosque retained its divine nature.
The RSS leader suggested prioritising the revival of

Hindu consciousness

rather than searching for physical evidence of heritage, stating this approach might naturally resolve mosque-related disputes.
Addressing caste matters, Hosabale stated that whilst caste practices within families might be acceptable, using caste for discrimination or political advantage becomes problematic.
Regarding 'Akhand Bharat', he clarified it transcends geographical unity.
He confirmed their unchanged position on territorial unity, noting the continued observance of Akhand Bharat Sankalp Diwas.
Hosabale emphasised that achieving 'Akhand Bharat' requires a strong, organised Hindu society within India, acknowledging changed global geopolitics.
He concluded that whilst 'Akhand Bharat' remains their aspiration, successful reintegration depends on society's preparedness for such assimilation.