Mumbai’s political corridors are buzzing after RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocated for Bharat Ratna for Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Congress leader Bhai Jagtap fired back sharply, questioning how awarding India’s highest civilian honor to Savarkar would elevate its prestige.
In an exclusive conversation, Jagtap emphasized that Bharat Ratna stands as the pinnacle of recognition in a nation of 1.4 billion souls. Recipients have invariably dedicated their lives to noble causes or national service. ‘The RSS chief isn’t the nation’s chief,’ he quipped, casting doubt on Savarkar’s candidacy amid lingering controversies.
Jagtap didn’t mince words on the Modi government’s track record. ‘Several ministers carry blemishes, as per reports,’ he noted, warning that such awards would tarnish the honor’s sanctity. He urged the government to decide, confident the public would scrutinize every move.
Shifting gears, Jagtap addressed Salman Khan’s presence at an RSS event. As a former cricketer, he advocated separating sports and arts from politics. He recalled the 90s underworld menace, crediting Congress-led efforts for curbing it, and lamented recent threats to Rohit Shetty and Bollywood stars, signaling a collapse in law and order.
On Bhagwat’s call for three children per family, Jagtap called it laughable given India’s top global population rank. With women facing unprecedented insecurity, he questioned the timing of marriage advice to youth, pushing instead for guidance on education and jobs.
Jagtap rebuked Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for mere rhetoric against Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, demanding action over accusations. On BMC mayor Ritu Tavade’s infiltrator remarks, he advised leveraging existing laws after 12 years of BJP rule.
He deemed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla’s statements unfortunate, highlighting suppression of opposition voices, including on China. Regarding Maharashtra ex-Dy CM Ajit Pawar’s plane crash suspicions, Jagtap insisted on transparency about the 18-year-old aircraft.
Finally, on India-Pakistan cricket, Jagtap insisted sports remain apolitical, celebrating India’s dominance and U-19 World Cup triumph.