"Ought to know better": Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticizes Bhagwat's remarks
Jan 17, 2025
Kochi (Kerala) [India], January 17 : Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sharply criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat over his recent remarks on India's independence. Speaking to the media, Tharoor stated that Bhagwat's comments undermined the true essence of the country's freedom struggle.
"Mohan Bhagwat ought to know better. Independence was won with the hard work and sacrifices of a lot of people," Tharoor said.
He condemned Bhagwat's remarks, stressing that India's freedom was achieved through the efforts of countless patriots, many of whom endured immense suffering in British jails. "How can any responsible Indian denigrate the achievements of the freedom fighters who have given their lives in many cases, as well as their freedom for many years in British jails to fight for the freedom we take for granted today?"
Tharoor emphasized that there should be no confusion between independence and other forms of political or religious victories. "There is no question that the independence of India was won with the blood, sweat, toil and tears of patriots. That happened on 15th August, 1947," he said.
The Congress leader also pointed out that while Bhagwat may have personal reasons for celebrating other achievements, it should not be confused with the nation's independence.
"Mr Bhagwat may have other ways of being happy about other things in his political interest or career...But to confuse that with independence is simply use of language, it is not the right category within which we are discussing. Independence is one thing, your political victory or religious victory or communal victory is a different thing," Tharoor added.
These remarks came after RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's controversial satatement on Monday stating that the tradition of the country was one which started with Lord Ram, Krishna and Shiva. He also said that Indian gained its true Independence on the day Ram temple was consecrated.
The statement was met with backlash from several opposition leaders including Congress MP Digvihay Singh said that the latter should apologize as he has hurt the sentiments of the people of the nation.
