farooq-abdullah-censures-bhagwat-s-true-independence-remark

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Saturday stated that India is a great nation that achieved independence through immense effort.

He said, “We must foster brotherhood to sustain this independence... I hope Mohan Bhagwat and everyone else strive to create an India where we can live in harmony and achieve progress. That is the India we all desire.”

The statement came in response to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks during a public gathering in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

Bhagwat had claimed that India achieved “true independence” on the day of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) ceremony of the Ram Temple.

He said, “The true freedom of India, which endured centuries of persecution, was established on the day of the Ram Temple’s ‘Pran Pratishtha’. Although India had gained independence, it was not truly established.”

Bhagwat’s comments sparked widespread criticism from political leaders across the country. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the remarks, calling them “dangerous.”

She said, “It is wrong to erase the history of our independence in this manner... Such statements are not only incorrect but also deeply dangerous. This must be withdrawn. May our independence endure forever. We should honour our freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for this nation. How can the entire history of our country be disregarded like this?”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also criticised Bhagwat’s statement, calling it an insult to every Indian. Gandhi said that such comments would lead to arrest and trial in other countries.

He said, “Mohan Bhagwat feels entitled to redefine the nation’s independence movement and Constitution every few days. His latest statement amounts to treason because it undermines the Constitution and the struggle against British colonialism.

“If he made such remarks in any other country, he would be arrested and tried. This statement insults every citizen of India. It is time we stopped tolerating such baseless declarations,” Gandhi added.