Akhilesh Yadav Reacts to Modi’s RSS Praise: ‘Swadeshi by Word, Foreign by Heart’

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech, where he praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav launched a critique of the organization, alleging it to be “Swadeshi by word, but foreign at heart.” Speaking to reporters in Lucknow, Yadav contrasted the RSS’s approach with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s initial commitment to secularism and socialism. “They are Swadeshi by word, but foreign at heart,” he stated. This comment came in response to Modi’s earlier remarks that lauded the RSS’s 100-year journey, describing it as the world’s “largest NGO.” Modi noted that the RSS had been dedicated to nation-building for a century, and the organization is celebrating its centenary this year. Established in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, Maharashtra, the RSS is commemorating its 100th year with several outreach programs and celebrations. During India’s Independence Day celebrations, Yadav also emphasized the importance of addressing global challenges. The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister asserted, “Today, as we celebrate Independence Day, we must acknowledge the challenges of the world. The more robust our farmers are, the stronger our country will be economically, and the more promising the future of our youth will be, allowing our nation to compete effectively in global markets.”