In the wake of controversy surrounding veteran Congress leader Digvijaya Singh's recent remarks about the organizational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Congress leader T.S. Singh Deo has stepped forward to clarify the context and defend Singh's intentions. Deo asserted that Singh's observations were not meant to imitate or endorse the RSS ideology, but rather to acknowledge effective organizational practices that could be beneficial for any entity.
"Digvijaya Singh's intention was not to imitate anyone," Deo stated, emphasizing that there is "nothing wrong in observing effective organisational practices". He further clarified that Singh had explicitly rejected the RSS ideology, ensuring his remarks were not misconstrued as an endorsement. "As far as I know, Digvijaya Singh clearly said that he completely rejects the ideology of RSS," Deo affirmed.
Singh's comments ignited a mixed bag of reactions within the Congress party. While some leaders defended his right to acknowledge effective strategies regardless of their origin, others remained wary of any perceived alignment with the RSS, a group ideologically opposed to the Congress. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Rajni Patil supported Singh, stating that his statement was not wrong.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized upon the situation to criticize the Congress, with senior leader Ravi Shankar Prasad suggesting Singh's remarks reflect a delayed realization of the BJP's robust grassroots structure. Shaina NC, a Shiv Sena leader, commented that Singh's statements reflect the "actual situation of a sinking ship," referring to the Congress party.
Deo has attacked the RSS-BJP, saying that Congress ideology is one of inclusiveness, while RSS uses hate to strengthen themselves. He further elaborated, "We are against their ideology". Deo's defense of Singh underscores the ongoing debate within the Congress about how to approach and counter the BJP and its ideological affiliates. Some believe the party should be open to learning from successful strategies regardless of their source, while others prioritize maintaining a strict ideological distance.
The controversy comes at a time when the Congress is striving to revitalize its organizational structure and reconnect with voters. Internal differences and varying perspectives on key issues continue to pose challenges for the party as it navigates the complex political landscape. The incident also highlights the sensitivity surrounding any perceived association with the RSS, particularly for a party that has historically positioned itself as a secular alternative.
Meanwhile, Digvijaya Singh has faced separate legal trouble after allegedly sharing an edited video of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The Madhya Pradesh Congress has alleged foul play, claiming that Chouhan had previously shared misleading information while in the opposition.
