After the RSS was formed, it began creating numerous organizations rooted in its ideology of Hindutva or Hindu Nationalism—a concept based on Aryan race theory, Brahminical values, and the geographic idea of a land stretching from the Sindhu River to the seas. Over time, it has given rise to over 100 organizations.
Many other groups have emerged, which, though not formally part of the Sangh Parivar (as it is popularly known), share the same ideology. These include associations of sadhus and sants outside the VHP, cow vigilante groups, and those who instigate violence in the name of Hinduism at the slightest provocation. It seems that many such aggressive organizations are now exceeding the boundaries set by the RSS for its followers.
For instance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi once stated that murder in the name of the cow is unacceptable. Yet, just hours later, a Muslim man was killed over this issue. This phenomenon persists. On one occasion, Modi emphasized the importance of love, harmony, and brotherhood, citing the teachings of Lord Christ. Yet, shortly after, vigilante groups, including Bajrang Dal, attacked a man in Ahmedabad dressed as Santa Claus who was distributing gifts. A viral video shows two men dressed as Santa Claus being beaten at the Kankaria Carnival in Ahmedabad. This year may be the first where people dressed as Santa Claus have faced such hostility.
Previously, carol singers were attacked, and since the BJP came to power, carol singing has been discontinued at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Bajrang Dal has even warned Hindus against attending Christmas parties. Why have such acts against Christmas celebrations reached a new low?
Recently, claims of temples beneath mosques have resurfaced, reminiscent of the Babri Masjid dispute. Amid a spate of such claims, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that people should not search for a Shivling under every mosque. Despite this, disputes continue, such as the claim in Kashi where a fountain-like structure is alleged to be a Shivling, sparking demands to convert the mosque into a temple. In Sambhal, such claims have led to violence.
Perhaps sensing the potential loss of face for the RSS, Bhagwat made a measured statement: "The Ram Temple was about faith, and Hindus wanted it built. But raising disputes about new sites out of hate is unacceptable. Some people think they can become leaders of Hindus by creating new controversies. How is this allowed?"
Surprisingly, many fringe Hindutva organizations have opposed Bhagwat’s appeal. The RSS, known for its strict discipline, rarely sees its members defying their leader’s commands. So, who are these Senas and Dharma Sansads springing up in defiance?
Even the RSS's unofficial mouthpiece, Organizer, supported the fringe elements’ stance, claiming in a December 27, 2024, article that "temple restorations are a quest for our identity." It argued that such actions are essential for national identity and civilizational justice.
How has hate become so pervasive that it now transcends the limits set by the RSS’s own leaders? Is it because leaders like Modi tacitly support these actions, as they strengthen their political agenda? If not, why do perpetrators of violence enjoy impunity? Why do institutions responsible for law and order, and even the judiciary to some extent, appear lenient toward these elements?
Having faced no consequences for the Babri Masjid demolition, cow-related lynchings, and so-called "love jihad" incidents, these groups now operate with the confidence that the law will bend to protect them.
The Organizer’s opposition to Bhagwat raises questions: Is there a rift within the RSS? While Bhagwat calls for peace and harmony, others within the organization seem intent on continuing a path of hate and violence.
Another aspect to consider is the political dynamics at play. Initially, such actions might serve electoral benefits, but over time, they create autonomous factions within the movement. As Bhagwat noted, some individuals seek political power and influence by perpetuating such controversies. One recalls how former RSS chief K. Sudarshan was present during the Babri Masjid demolition—a crime for which no one was ultimately held accountable.
The impunity surrounding the Babri Masjid demolition has set a precedent for spreading false narratives about temple destruction and perpetuating myths against Muslims. Today, even the supreme authority of the RSS struggles to rein in these elements. The ongoing anti-Christian campaign, rooted in decades-old propaganda about forced conversions, is a continuation of this strategy.
Leaders like Bhagwat and Modi are witnessing firsthand that while unleashing such forces may be easy, controlling them is an almost impossible task.
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