New Delhi, August 15, 2025 — In a historic departure from tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation on Independence Day from the Red Fort, for the first time in his 12 consecutive addresses, publicly praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He termed the organisation “the world’s biggest non-governmental organisation” and lauded its century-long journey in nation-building Navbharat TimesThe Times of India.
Modi, who once served as an RSS pracharak (full-time volunteer), spoke with unmistakable pride. “Today, I want to mention one thing with great pride—that 100 years ago, an organisation was born: the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Its hundred years of national service has been a very proud and glorious chapter,” he declared www.ndtv.comThe Indian Express.
A Milestone Acknowledgement
This mention marks a notable moment in Indian political rhetoric. For over a decade, Modi’s speeches typically avoided direct reference to the RSS, despite its ideological influence over the ruling BJP. Recognising the RSS from the historic Red Fort indicates both a symbolic and political alignment as the organisation celebrates its centenary India Todaywww.ndtv.com.
Analysts suggest this move signals unity between Modi and the RSS leadership, potentially quelling speculation about any tensions between them. It serves as a reaffirmation of the Sangh’s central place in the BJP-led governance model India Today.
Why Is This Moment Important?
Supporters view Modi’s gesture as heartfelt recognition of social service. Over the decades, the RSS and its affiliated bodies have played prominent roles during natural disasters—from relief camps during floods in Kerala and Assam to Cyclone Fani in Odisha and COVID-19 aid through Seva Bharati India Today. Modi highlighted these efforts as evidence of “service, dedication, organization, and unmatched discipline”—values he attributes to the Sangh The Indian ExpressHindustan Times.
Opposition Reacts
Not everyone welcomed the acknowledgement. Opposition figures swiftly criticized the mention:
- Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) condemned it as “an insult to the freedom struggle,” accusing the RSS of having aligned with colonial forces and dishonoring the sacrifices of freedom fighters Navbharat TimesHindustan Times.
- Jairam Ramesh, Congress communications chief, called Modi’s name-checking of the RSS a breach of the secular spirit of the Constitution and speculated political motives tied to Modi’s upcoming 75th birthday Hindustan TimesThe Times of India.
- Other critics echoed these views, describing the praise as politically driven and inappropriate for a national occasion Hindustan TimesThe Times of India.
Wider Context: What’s Beyond the Praise
Modi’s address wasn’t solely focused on ideological gestures. He also launched key initiatives and policy shifts:
- Renewed emphasis on self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), particularly in semiconductor, fertilizer, and EV battery sectors ReutersThe Economic Times.
- Announced next-generation GST reforms set to take effect around Diwali meant to ease tax burdens and simplify compliance ReutersHindustan Times.
- Unveiled Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a new defense system designed to strengthen India’s security posture ReutersHindustan Times.
Though these initiatives were widely covered, the unique mention of the RSS overshadowed much of the other content of the speech.
What It All Means
Prime Minister Modi’s tribute to the RSS underscores the enduring power of ideology in shaping national narratives. By acknowledging the Sangh’s century of service, he not only boosts its visibility but also anchors the BJP’s ideological roots publicly. However, this move highlights the balancing act in Indian politics: honoring tradition and identity while navigating the delicate tapestry of India’s secular and pluralistic values.
For many, the statement deepened conversations about what constitutes nation-building and who gets credit for it. As India moves forward, echoes of this moment are likely to stay alive in both public memory and political dialogues—venturing beyond rhetoric and into the heart of how the nation defines its history and future.
