Understanding RSS and BJP: A Closer Look at Hindu Nationalism in India

The perception that RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) and BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) represent Hinduism is not a one-size-fits-all generalization. It instead reflects the actions and beliefs of specific individuals within these organizations, particularly individuals like Nupur Sharma, Tejasvi Surya, Raja Singh, Sambit Patra, and Mohan Bhagwat, who are often seen as ideologically aligned with a more fervent form of Hindu nationalism.

History and Context

To understand why some people associate RSS and BJP with Hinduism, we need to delve into the historical and political context. Mahatma Gandhi, a spiritual and political leader, envisioned Hindu-Muslim unity and non-violence as key principles. However, these ideals faced significant challenges, especially post-partition and post-indpendence.

After India's partition, the Indian state adopted secularism to foster unity and integrate Muslims who could not join Pakistan. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister, ensured minority appeasement to maintain peace and ensure the protection of Muslims in India. However, the historical wounds and the inherent violence of certain Hindu groups, which were underestimated by Gandhi, posed significant challenges to this ideology.

RSS: A Response to the Situation

RSS, with its strong platform for Hinduism and its core values, grew in influence in North India. It recognized the potential threat posed by the opposing forces, who could undermine Indian culture. While Congress, led by Nehru, fostered an environment where Hinduism was often sidelined to appease minority communities, RSS advocated for a stronger, more unified expression of Hindu identity.

Following Gandhi's assassination, RSS was often portrayed as anti-Gandhi and anti-unity by the Congress party, which was itself becoming less concerned about Hinduism. This political divide led to a growing disillusionment among North Indians, who felt that their cultural and religious needs were not being adequately represented by the Congress.

The Rise of BJP

As tensions rose, Jan Sangh, a political party linked to RSS, gradually gained support, eventually forming the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP's clear ideology of Hindutva, aimed at countering pseudo-secularism, resonated with many. This aligned well with the sentiments of those who felt their religious and cultural rights were being neglected or compromised.

In contrast, Southern India, especially Tamil Nadu, had a different historical and political context. Post-partition violence did not have a significant impact on the region, and anti-Hindu movements, such as those led by E. V. Ramaswamy Periyar and his party, DK (Dravida Kazhagam), had already alienated the region from northern Hindu sentiments. The DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), which evolved from DK, further solidified this divide.

Conclusion

The perception of RSS and BJP representing Hinduism is rooted in specific historical and political circumstances, reflecting the actions of certain individuals and groups within these organizations. Understanding this context helps to grasp why some associate these parties with a more fervent form of Hindu nationalism, while others remain distant or even hostile. It is important to recognize the complex interplay of cultural, religious, and political factors that have shaped this dynamic in India.

Keywords: RSS, BJP, Hindu nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi, secularism