The Sharad Pawar-led NCP today sought an apology from the RSS, saying its chief Mohan Bhagwat's remarks that the Sangh could "prepare" military personnel faster than the Army, were an insult to India's armed forces. "Saying that the RSS swayamsevaks are more prepared (than the Army) is akin to insulting our armed forces. This statement is wrong. The RSS should apologise over such remarks," NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said. "Raising a question mark over the capability of the Indian armed forces is not right.
If given the orders, our armed forces can take any action (against the enemy) in minutes," the NCP leader said. Bhagwat's statement disrespects the armed forces and those who have laid down their lives for the country, he said. Addressing an RSS workers meet in Bihar yesterday, Bhagwat said, "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits (to do so)." The RSS has, however, clarified that Bhagwat's speech has been misrepresented.
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