Rashtriya Swyamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat’s outreach to Muslims during a book launch function in Ghaziabad on Sunday evoked mixed response from Muslim academics and activists. However, most of them saw it as an attempt to reshape the RSS’s image according to changing global politics. Prof. Baig also pointed to Mr. Bhagwat’s acknowledgement of the need to appreciate the differences in worship and lifestyle of different communities. Hindu audienceHe said more than Muslims, Mr Bhagat seemed to be addressing the moderate/liberal Hindu voter who was shifting away from the BJP because of its relentless pursuit of hate politics. Reminding that RSS leaders often spoke with a forked tongue, Prof. Sajjad underlined that Mr Bhagwat’s remarks will remain mere rhetoric unless the impact is seen on the ground.

Source: The Hindu July 05, 2021 14:26 UTC