Modi Releases Coin and Stamp for RSS Centenary; Opposition Voices Dissent

A commemorative coin, valued at Rs 100, was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on October 1st. This coin marks the first inclusion of ‘Bharat Mata’ on Indian currency. The coin features RSS volunteers in their uniform, paying tribute to Bharat Mata, which the Prime Minister described as a moment of pride. The coin includes the RSS’s motto, ‘Rashtriya Swaha, Idan Rashtraya, Idan Mama’, highlighting national dedication. A postage stamp was also released depicting the participation of RSS volunteers in the 1963 Republic Day parade. The event, however, has been met with strong opposition. Opposition parties accused the government of glorifying the RSS through the Ministry of Culture, with accusations also leveled at Dattatreya Hosbale. The Congress party raised concerns about the RSS’s role in the independence movement. The CPI (Marxist) criticized the coin and stamp, labeling them as disrespectful to the Constitution, and arguing that the RSS is utilizing the image of ‘Bharat Mata’ as a symbol of Hindutva. The CPI (M) also disputed the historical accuracy of the RSS’s involvement in the 1963 parade. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh referenced a 1948 letter from Sardar Patel, implicating the RSS in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the RSS’s ‘nation first’ principle and their support for freedom fighters. The RSS was established in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur with the aim of promoting cultural awareness, discipline, and community service.