Yadav Slams RSS Following Modi’s Remarks, Accuses It of Being ‘Foreign at Heart’

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for the RSS during an Independence Day address by criticizing the organization. Yadav said the RSS is “Swadeshi in words, but foreign at heart.” The remarks were made during a press briefing in Lucknow. Yadav referenced the initial commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party to secular and socialist principles, contrasting this with the path of the RSS. He said, “They are Swadeshi by word, but foreign at heart.” This comment followed Modi’s commendation of the RSS’s century-long journey, labeling it the world’s “largest NGO.” Modi stated that the RSS has dedicated itself to nation-building over the last century. The RSS is currently observing its 100th anniversary. Founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, Maharashtra, the RSS is marking its centenary with various outreach programs and festivities. On Independence Day, Yadav also highlighted the importance of addressing global challenges for India. He stated, “As we celebrate Independence Day, we need to accept the challenges of the world. Our farmers’ strength is directly proportional to our country’s economic strength, and the youth’s future will be brighter, enabling us to compete in global markets.”