A fresh political storm has engulfed India’s capital as Congress MP Imran Masood vehemently opposes RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s advocacy for Bharat Ratna to Veer Savarkar. Labeling the icon a divider of the nation, Masood argues the award would betray its noble purpose.
In a pointed interview with IANS, Masood challenged: ‘For what achievement does Savarkar deserve this? Promoting the two-nation theory that carved up Akhand Bharat?’ He stressed that Bharat Ratna symbolizes national integration, incompatible with Savarkar’s divisive legacy.
‘Savarkar’s contributions harmed India’s fabric,’ Masood elaborated. This rebuttal comes amid RSS’s push to honor Savarkar, whose mercy petitions and partition stance remain flashpoints in historical discourse.
Turning to UCC, Masood lambasted the RSS leader: ‘Implementing UCC sans thorough studies? It’s already hurting Adivasis. Real-world fallout is imminent.’ His critique highlights concerns over cultural impositions without groundwork.
In UP, Masood touted Congress’s proactive role in the SIR voter cleanup. ‘Beyond words, we’re targeting Form 7 cheats to safeguard democracy,’ he declared. The extended deadline to March 2026 allows thorough scrutiny of voter lists, eliminating irregularities like double entries and ghost voters.
Electoral authorities assure full transparency, processing objections methodically. This initiative fortifies India’s electoral integrity, a cornerstone of democracy.
Masood’s broadside reflects Congress’s strategy to counter RSS narratives on history and reforms. With elections looming, such exchanges signal intensifying battles over legacy, policy, and votes. Savarkar’s Bharat Ratna candidacy now hangs in a precarious balance, mirroring India’s polarized polity.