RSS chief's informal visit, to discuss India-China, Ram temple issues

BHOPAL: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat arrived in Bhopal on a five-day visit during which he will hold several informal meetings with the Sangh core group committee members and senior BJP leaders. Bhagwat was accompanied by his deputy Bhaiyyaji Joshi.
He would discuss several issues related to Covid-19 crisis, India-China stand off and preparations for the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, said sources.
"This is an informal meeting amid Covid-19 crisis. The Sangh Parivar has ceased all gatherings and meetings in the wake of strict Covid norms and to follow the social distancing guidelines. Bhagwat ji will hold informal discussions with only 20 leaders including all Sah Sarkaryavah (joint general secretary) and top Pracharaks, besides a few BJP leaders," disclosed a senior RSS functionary.
Bhagwat had on February 3 reviewed the RSS awareness campaign on Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Due to Covid-19 crisis, the meeting of all regional heads which was convened in July was cancelled hence, a quarterly meeting was convened at the Sharda Vihar Mandir premises, near Kerwa dam in Bhopal to discuss core issues, sources added.
The informal meetings conducted by the RSS hold significance in view of some national issues related to security and health. On Tuesday, discussions were held on the expansion of RSS Shakhas and brainstorming over crucial matters. It was learnt that the RSS has carried out detailed sessions to decide its view on the India-China stand-off. Recent developments in the Galwan Valley and the intrusion by the Chinese army has drawn adverse feedback among the public. The RSS top cadre had also discussed the issue with the Central leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Sangh Parivar will take up the matter to the public to build a strong opinion on the stalemate, sources said.
The construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a major issue ahead of the foundation laying ceremony by Prime Minister Modi on August 5, on the invitation of Ram Temple Trust. The RSS had celebrated 'Ram Navmi' in April by staying at home and lighting the lamps.
"On the foundation ceremony, the Sangh Parivar plans a major celebration throughout the day to mark the beginning of the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Bhagwat, alongwith other senior cadre, discussed the role of Sangh Parivar to create an atmosphere and encourage the people all over the country to get involved with the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya," said sources.
In view of a spike in the Covid-19 outbreak, the RSS has planned to use digital media to communicate and conduct programmes to all its volunteers. "The Sangh Parivar has initiated 'E-Milan' programmes through video conferencing to hold talks with all RSS volunteers. This has replaced the RSS 'Shakhas' amid coronavirus spread. The meeting has involved all family members to inform them about the Covid-19 crisis, discuss issues related to Sangh Parivar, routine exercise and ideological discussions apart from precautions and relief programmes during Covid-19 crisis," he said.
The Sangh Parivar has also initiated relief camps for migrant labourers and taken up distribution of Ayurvedic medicines (Kadha) among people to control coronavirus spread. In view of the crisis, the RSS has also decided to postpone meetings during Dussehra and Diwali festivals.
The RSS chief is also likely to hold discussions with top BJP brass over ongoing political developments ahead of by-polls in Madhya Pradesh. Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state BJP chief VD Sharma and organising general secretary, Suhas Bhagat are likely to meet Bhagwat during his stay. The RSS chief is likely to leave on July 25.