PM Modi Hails RSS in Independence Day Speech, Sparks Political Row

In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the RSS as the world’s largest volunteer organization, calling its century-long service 'a matter of pride'.

PM graced the 79th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort, in Delhi on August 15, 2025.

New Delhi: From the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday invoked the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in his Independence Day address, showering praise on the organization and calling it the largest non-governmental organization in the world. He asserted that the role of the Sangh in nation-building has been undeniable, marking the first time in his twelve consecutive Independence Day speeches that Modi made an elaborate reference to the RSS. His remarks have already triggered sharp criticism from the opposition.

Speculation about a symbolic message to the RSS had begun even before his speech, owing to Modi’s attire—an orange turban, a saffron jacket, and a tricolor-bordered stole—signs that political observers read as subtle signals. The anticipation proved right when Modi began his address by paying tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee and, shortly thereafter, launched into praise of the RSS. “The Sangh has always played a leading role whenever the nation required. For a hundred years, it has served the country with dedication and sacrifice. Its history makes me proud. It is the world’s largest volunteer organization,” Modi declared from the Red Fort.

Political circles have long been abuzz with talk of differences between Modi and the RSS. Reports suggest that even the appointment of the BJP’s new national president had been stalled because of these disagreements. Modi had even traveled to Nagpur in March to meet RSS leaders, but the rift seemed unresolved. Recently, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks supporting retirement at the age of 75 were seen as an indirect jibe at Modi, adding to the speculation of tension. Against this backdrop, Modi’s open admiration for the Sangh on its centenary year is being read as a significant reconciliatory gesture.

“I say with pride that a hundred years ago, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was born. For a century, it has selflessly served the nation with the goal of both individual and national development. Countless people have dedicated their lives to the motherland with discipline, devotion, and sacrifice. Service, dedication, organization, and unmatched discipline are the true identity of the RSS,” the Prime Minister said in a pointed statement. Analysts believe his words were not just an acknowledgement but also a carefully crafted message of solidarity to the Sangh at a crucial juncture.

The Prime Minister’s RSS tribute from the Red Fort, however, sparked a storm of criticism. The Congress accused him of lowering the dignity of the Independence Day address by glorifying the Sangh, which the party had once banned. Some opposition voices argued that Modi’s words effectively absolved the RSS of its controversial past. On the other hand, RSS supporters have welcomed the recognition as long overdue. The real measure of how satisfied the Sangh feels with Modi’s praise, however, will only become clear in Mohan Bhagwat’s upcoming Vijayadashami address. Until then, political observers suggest, the nation must wait and watch.