The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat, has weighed in on the ongoing delay in the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) selection of a new president, offering a remark that has been interpreted as a witty jab at the party. Speaking on Thursday, Bhagwat responded to questions about the perceived role of the RSS in the BJP's internal matters, particularly the selection of its president.

Bhagwat stated that it is "completely wrong" to suggest that the RSS dictates the BJP's decisions, including the choice of its president. In a remark that drew applause from the audience, he quipped, "If we were deciding, would it have taken so long?". He added, "We don't decide. Take your time. We don't have to say anything".

The BJP has been without a permanent president since J.P. Nadda's term ended in January 2024. Nadda's term was extended due to the Lok Sabha elections, and he continues to serve as president while also holding the portfolio of Union Health Minister in the Modi government. The delay in selecting a new president has led to speculation and questions about the decision-making process within the BJP and the extent of the RSS's influence.

Bhagwat clarified that the RSS and the BJP have distinct areas of expertise. He stated that the RSS is adept at running its 'shakhas' (branches), while the BJP has experience in governing. While the RSS can offer suggestions, the final decisions rest with the BJP leadership. "I run shakhas; that is my expertise. They (BJP) run the government; that is their expertise," Bhagwat explained. "We can give them suggestions, but the decision is theirs in their field and ours in ours".

Bhagwat also addressed the broader relationship between the RSS and the BJP, dismissing claims of conflict or tension. He affirmed that the two organizations maintain good coordination, guided by the principle of "nation first". While differences of opinion may arise, there are no fundamental disagreements. "We can have differences of opinion, but we never have differences of heart," he said. He also noted that the RSS coordinates well with governments at the center and in the states, regardless of the ruling party.

Bhagwat acknowledged that the Indian governance system, largely inherited from the British, has "internal contradictions". He stressed the importance of granting independence to those in positions of authority, even if they are aligned with the RSS ideology. "Even if the person in the chair is 100 per cent with us, he may have hurdles. So, we have to give him independence," Bhagwat said.

Bhagwat's remarks come amidst discussions about the RSS's role in Indian politics and its relationship with the BJP. The RSS, often described as the ideological mentor of the BJP, has been the subject of scrutiny and speculation regarding its influence on the party's policies and decisions. Bhagwat's comments sought to clarify the nature of this relationship, emphasizing the autonomy of the BJP while acknowledging the RSS's role as a guiding force.