‘RSS Unites India, Congress Divides’ : Ramchander Rao Hits Back at Priyank Kharge

Telangana BJP leader N. Ramchander Rao strongly responded to remarks made by Karnataka minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge regarding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) , asserting that the organization has played a pivotal role in preserving national unity while accusing the Congress party of encouraging divisions for political gain. Speaking to the media on Monday, Rao dismissed the allegations and defended the RSS as a patriotic force committed to national service , stating that its ideological foundations have helped sustain social cohesion and national integrity. He emphasized that the organization has been actively involved in disaster relief , rural outreach, and social service initiatives across the country, and argued that while Congress has historically mobilized politics around caste and sectional interests, the RSS promotes cultural nationalism and unity. Rao added that the BJP draws inspiration from RSS principles and claimed that imagining a united India without the organization would be impossible.

The political exchange follows remarks made by Kharge at a book launch event in Bengaluru , where he questioned the funding sources of the RSS and its affiliated bodies, alleging that thousands of organizations linked to the RSS receive significant foreign contributions and suggesting the possibility of financial irregularities. He called for transparency and compliance with legal provisions governing foreign funding, noting that organizations receiving overseas donations must adhere to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) , which mandates registration, disclosure, and auditing. Kharge also questioned the practice of collecting donations described as gurudakshina , traditionally voluntary contributions made by members and supporters, and asked whether similar fundraising methods would be permitted for other organizations, calling for greater regulatory scrutiny.

At the same event, Kharge criticized what he described as politicized interpretations of religious texts, stating that such narratives contradict the spirit of Valmiki’s Ramayana . Referring to comments by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat encouraging larger families in the context of demographic balance, Kharge mocked the remarks and accused political groups of using religion for electoral purposes. He expressed concern over social polarization and argued that violence or hatred in the name of religion must be rejected.