Pranab Mukherjee at an RSS meet? Just what the doctor ordered for democracy

The news of Pranab Mukherjee’s attendance at a forthcoming RSS function raised many eyebrows. In times so divided such response was obvious and expected. The reactions in the opposition camp have been churlish and unthinking. In these highly divisive times, what democracy needs is a mature engagement with conflicting views. For those who raise their voice against intolerance, the intolerance towards Mukherjee’s acceptance of an RSS event is no evidence of tolerance. Pranab Mukherjee, who enjoys respect across party lines, can be a bridge between diametrically opposite political views and ideas and that’s the purpose of elders in any society.

Vajpayee, Mukherjee and Manmohan Singh are the only living politicians who enjoy respect among all communities and sections of political society. India’s biggest challenge is divided politics, intolerance and leaders who are unable to stand each other. During the Vajpayee years, the back channel between 7 Race Course and 10 Janpath was open. Vajpayee was seen as a big-hearted opponent and he was truly an admirer of his predecessors, particularly Nehru (who himself invited RSS to attend the Republic Day parade in 1963, much to the shock, unsurprisingly, of the then intelligentsia) and his establishment of civil democratic society.

Manmohan Singh with his simplicity and integrity won great respect from all quarters. A man of peace, he never attacked his opponents fiercely. His mind and heart are both underutilised in such times. I am certain that if Modi turns to him for advice on the economy, he would not hesitate. Mukherjee, on the other hand was admired, by his opponent as a tough negotiator and rule-book man. His brilliant mind and astute character made him exceptional in Indian politics. There is only one man in the history of independent India who decided to become the President and made sure that he reached the highest office. That’s Pranab Mukherjee.

Not many know that during the Vajpayee years Mukherjee would be consulted on important policy matters. Vajpayee knew that in some cases Mukherjee’s vast experience would help. National interest was supreme and talent was not segregated by political affiliations. Today, Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi do not share a working relationship and that is not in the interest of the nation.

With Vajpayee indisposed and Manmohan Singh politically inactive, we are left with Pranab Mukherjee to bridge the gap. Whether one likes or hates RSS, one can’t ignore it. You call it the 10 Janpath of NDA or the conscience-keeper of the Union Government; it is a force to reckon with and disengagement should be the last resort. There is no alternative to discussion in democracy and we should accept that we are an exclusive democracy, far from of inclusive character.

Why is there so much outrage over Pranab Mukherjee accepting an RSS invite? Debate and civilised engagement with those who may not espouse your ideology is actually a pretty good thing in a democracy. Mature politicians understand that.

— Rohini Singh (@rohini_sgh) May 28, 2018

The world around us is changing fast and unpredictably. North and South Korea have now met twice in one month and a visit between Trump and Kim Jong-un is planned. Why then are we surprised with Mukherjee going to Nagpur? It is obvious that RSS seeks endorsement to be seen as an inclusive outfit and Mukherjee’s visit has earned them such an endorsement. But it is still a progressive exercise in highly regressive times for our political society.

Here’s hoping such engagements continue. RSS should exercise its political weight to help strengthen the democratic fabric and tradition of India. It is unfortunate that they have never spoken to the government on issues like Parliamentary deadlock. It is time that institutions and some significant leaders engage on issues that are real threats to the health of our society and state. One eagerly awaits what Mukherjee will say on June 7 and also to how those on the other side will respond. India’s intellectual and political division is a stumbling block to creating a meaningful dialogue. Democracy operates on consensus and we need more consensus-builders to build a nation.