RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's Statement on Temple-Mosque Debate Sparks Discussion, Gains Support from 'Panchjanya'

A recent statement by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on the sensitive issue of temple-mosque disputes has garnered significant attention.
Backing his remarks, the RSS-affiliated magazine 'Panchjanya' published an editorial supporting Bhagwat’s call for a balanced and understanding approach on such matters.
Editorial Highlights
The Panchjanya editorial emphasized that Bhagwat’s statement is a clear appeal for a rational and measured stance on the issue. It cautioned against the ongoing unnecessary debates and misleading narratives that have dominated public discourse, particularly amplified by social media.
The editorial noted, "Temples are central to Hindu faith, but their use for political gains is completely unacceptable. Engaging in unnecessary debates or spreading misleading propaganda about temple-mosque issues has become a concerning trend."
It further stressed the need to understand the historical context of religious sites that were attacked or demolished to promote civilizational justice and foster peace and harmony among communities.
Bhagwat’s Key Remarks
Addressing an event in Pune on December 19, Bhagwat stated that while the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was a matter of faith for Hindus, raising new issues repeatedly is unwarranted.
He expressed concern that some individuals are attempting to project themselves as Hindu leaders by reigniting such disputes. He firmly remarked, "Issues like these should not be raised repeatedly. The Ayodhya Ram Temple was a special case, but pursuing similar matters for personal or political gain is unacceptable."
Context of the Debate
In recent months, controversies surrounding mosques and demands for their surveys have intensified across the country. Bhagwat’s statement and the subsequent editorial in Panchjanya come as a response to this growing discourse.
The editorial called for focusing on societal harmony and warned against using religious disputes as a political tool. It stated that understanding history is crucial for fostering peace among communities, but politicizing such issues undermines social cohesion.
The Larger Implication
Bhagwat’s statement and the editorial’s endorsement underscore the RSS’s stance of discouraging unnecessary polarization over temple-mosque disputes. It signals a call for societal maturity and caution in navigating such historically sensitive issues.