'Destruction Matter Of 2 Mins, But Construction...': RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat In Manipur

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said that attempts are being made at both the community and societal levels to bring back stability in Manipur. He made the remarks in Imphal while addressing dignitaries, civil society members and Sangh volunteers on the first day of his three-day visit to the state. Speaking about the situation, Bhagwat said, “Whether the government knows or not, the Sangh knows. We are concerned (about Manipur), the Sangh cares for every part of India. Our ground network is everywhere. We exist because of you, the swayamsevaks. The Sangh does not stand on the strength of any government; we exist because of your commitment.” He said rebuilding peace and trust will take time, even if things appear calm on the outside. Bhagwat added, “Destruction is a matter of two minutes, but construction takes two years. Amity of minds will take time. We are at it. And we are doing it. We are working, and we are willing to work alongside those who are also trying to bring people together irrespective of ethnicity, caste and religion. Material or external peace may come, but bringing internal peace and understanding will take time.” Bhagwat’s visit comes at a time when various groups in Manipur continue efforts to mend relationships and restore harmony across communities. Bhagwat said the RSS’s work stands apart from any other organisation. “There is no organisation comparable to the RSS, just as the sea, the sky, and the ocean have no comparison. The growth of RSS is organic, and the methodology was resolved after 14 years of its foundation. To understand, one must visit Shakha. The objective of RSS is to organise the whole Hindu society, including those who oppose the Sangh, not creating a power centre within the society.” He pointed out that misinformation about the RSS has existed since the early 1930s. He said these narratives often came from outside Bharat and from groups that did not understand the country or its civilisational character. The Sarsanghchalak said the organisation should be understood through facts and not through perceptions created by such campaigns. Bhagwat explained that the word “Hindu” in this context refers to a cultural and civilisational identity, not just a religious one. He said, “It (Hindu) is not a noun but an adjective.” For a strong nation, he stressed the need for both “quality and unity”, adding that the strength of a country depends not just on its leaders, but on a society that stands together. Speaking about Bharat’s ancient roots, Bhagwat said the idea of the Rashtra came from the “tapasya” of ancient sages who worked for the good of humanity. He said principles such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam showed the universal outlook of Hindutva. Highlighting the need for a greater sense of belonging, he said, “As our societal strength increases, the world listens to us. Nobody listens to the weak. The mission of the Sangh is to nurture capable individuals for a strong and harmonious Hindu Samaj.”