RSS References to Caste

The RSS, as a Hindu nationalist organization, has historically discussed caste within the framework of Hindu social organization, often emphasizing "social harmony" (samajik samrasta) over outright abolition. 

Key references include:

1. RSS’s Samajik Samrasta Campaign (1980s–present):
   • The RSS launched its "social harmony" initiative to address caste divisions, encouraging integration among Hindu communities while maintaining traditional structures. Publications like Organiser (RSS mouthpiece) have emphasized that caste was originally a division of labor, not hierarchy, and should not divide Hindus today.
   • Example: In a 1989 Organiser article, the RSS argued that caste distinctions were a "distortion" of Vedic principles but stopped short of advocating for caste abolition, focusing instead on unity to counter external threats (e.g., missionary conversions).
   • Criticism: Dalit scholars like Anand Teltumbde have called this a superficial effort, noting the RSS’s reluctance to challenge caste-based power structures or Brahmin dominance within its leadership.
2. RSS Resolution on Social Harmony (2006):
   • During its Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha meeting in 2006, the RSS passed a resolution urging Hindus to eliminate "untouchability and caste-based discrimination" and promote inter-caste dining and temple entry for all. It framed caste as a historical system that was later rigidified by external invasions (e.g., Muslim rule).
   • Context: This was partly a response to growing Dalit activism and political shifts, like the rise of the BSP.
   • Criticism: Critics noted the resolution avoided addressing systemic caste privilege or inter-caste marriages, focusing on symbolic gestures.
3. RSS’s Stance in Literature (e.g., Bunch of Thoughts by M.S. Golwalkar, 1966):
   • Golwalkar, the second RSS chief, referred to caste as a functional division in Hindu society that ensured social cohesion historically but became rigid over time. He argued for reforming its "distortions" without dismantling it entirely, as it was part of Hindu culture.
   • Impact: This perspective influenced early RSS rhetoric, framing caste as a cultural artifact to be "purified" rather than eradicated, which critics argue implicitly upheld upper-caste hegemony.

Mohan Bhagwat’s Specific References to Caste

Mohan Bhagwat, as RSS Sarsanghchalak since 2009, has made several notable statements on caste, reflecting a mix of traditionalist framing, calls for reform, and strategic responses to contemporary politics. Below are specific instances, with context and reactions:

1. 2014: Lecture in Pune on Social Assimilation (August 17, 2014):
   • Statement: Bhagwat said, “The caste system was created for the division of labor based on aptitude, but it degenerated into a tool of discrimination. We must work to restore its original intent of harmony.”
   • Context: Speaking at an RSS-affiliated event, he emphasized Hindu unity to counter conversions and social fragmentation.
   • Interpretation: Critics, including Dalit activists, saw this as a defense of caste’s historical role, implying it had a legitimate cultural basis. Supporters viewed it as a call to reform caste’s misuse while preserving Hindu social identity.
   • Source: Reported in The Hindu (August 18, 2014) and Organiser.
2. 2017: Speech at Rajasthan’s Samajik Samrasta Sammelan (April 2, 2017):
   • Statement: “Caste was a system to ensure interdependence in society, not to create inequality. Today, we must rise above caste differences and treat all Hindus as one family.”
   • Context: The event aimed to promote inter-caste harmony amid tensions over Dalit agitations (e.g., post-Una flogging incident in 2016).
   • Reaction: Some media outlets and scholars (e.g., Christophe Jaffrelot) interpreted this as a soft defense of caste’s historical role, as Bhagwat avoided calling for its abolition. Dalit groups criticized the RSS for not addressing structural issues like land rights or inter-caste marriage.
   • Source: Covered in Indian Express (April 3, 2017).
3. 2018: RSS Lecture Series, “Bharat of Tomorrow” in Delhi (September 18, 2018):
   • Statement: “The Constitution does not recognize caste, and neither should we. But we must acknowledge social realities and work to eliminate discrimination gradually.”
   • Context: Bhagwat was addressing a diverse audience, including critics, to project the RSS as inclusive amid controversies over SC/ST Act amendments.
   • Reaction: This was seen as a progressive shift by some, but others, like Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, called it “hypocritical,” citing the RSS’s silence on caste-based violence and its Brahmin-dominated leadership.
   • Source: Hindustan Times (September 19, 2018).
4. 2023: Speech in Nagpur on Caste’s Origins (April 14, 2023):
   • Statement: “The caste system was not created by God but by pandits [scholars, not necessarily Brahmins]. All are equal before the Creator. We must reject caste divisions to strengthen Hindu society.”
   • Context: Speaking on Ambedkar Jayanti, Bhagwat aimed to align with Ambedkar’s legacy while addressing accusations of RSS’s anti-Dalit bias.
   • Reaction: Dalit intellectuals like Kancha Ilaiah criticized it as rhetorical, pointing to the RSS’s support for policies like anti-conversion laws that disproportionately affect marginalized castes. BJP allies like Sharad Pawar praised the intent but urged action.
   • Source: The Times of India (April 15, 2023).
5. 2025: Speech in Nagpur on Ending Caste Divisions (April 20, 2025):
   • Statement: “Hindus must end caste differences. Temples, wells, and cremation grounds should be shared by all. Caste is a man-made barrier, not divine, and it weakens us against divisive forces.”
   • Context: Delivered at an RSS event, this was a direct call for practical integration, especially with Dalits, amid political debates over reservation and Hindu unity.
   • Reaction: Liberals and Dalit activists  expressed skepticism, citing the RSS’s historical upper-caste tilt and lack of concrete policy proposals. Supporters, including some BJP leaders, hailed it as a step toward inclusivity. Critics also noted the timing, suggesting it was a strategic move to counter opposition narratives before elections.
   • Source: The Indian Express (April 21, 2025) 

Analysis and Ambiguities

• Evolution of Rhetoric: Bhagwat’s statements have shifted from contextualizing caste as a historical system (2014–2017) to explicitly critiquing it as man-made and divisive (2023–2025). This reflects political necessities, such as countering Dalit alienation, appealing to OBCs, and maintaining Hindu unity against opposition critiques.
• Ambiguities: Earlier remarks (e.g., 2014, 2017) appeared to defend caste’s cultural role by emphasizing its “original intent,” which critics interpreted as justifying its existence. Recent statements (2023–2025) are more reformist but lack specifics on systemic change, like supporting inter-caste marriages or addressing economic disparities.
• Criticisms: Dalit scholars and activists consistently argue that the RSS and Bhagwat’s focus on symbolic unity (e.g., shared temples) sidesteps structural issues like caste-based violence, economic inequality, and political representation. The RSS’s Brahmin-heavy leadership and policies (e.g., anti-conversion laws) are seen as contradictory to anti-caste rhetoric.
• Strategic Intent: Some analysts suggest Bhagwat’s recent statements are politically motivated to broaden the BJP-RSS’s appeal amid caste-based reservation debates and opposition alliances leveraging Dalit-OBC votes.