‘Politics is a game of self-interest’: Mohan Bhagwat calls for social change from within
New York: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said lasting social change cannot be achieved through politics alone and must begin within society, asserting that political systems often operate on self-interest.
Speaking at the ‘One World, One Humanity’ gathering at Madison Square Garden in New York, Bhagwat said social divisions could be addressed through dialogue, service and cooperation rather than relying solely on political action.
Bhagwat said building public opinion through sustained dialogue and community service was essential in a democracy. If public opinion becomes strong enough, politicians would not be able to ignore it as governments ultimately depend on people’s support, he said.
“The model of the world we want must first be built in our own society. Then we must connect it through continuous dialogue,” Bhagwat said.
The event brought together more than 180 religious representatives from 30 countries. Bhagwat said the RSS would extend its support to interfaith cooperation and called for dialogue at every level — from senior religious leaders to provincial, district and local communities.
The gathering also voiced concern over armed conflicts, displacement, prejudice and the rapid spread of hatred through digital platforms. Religious leaders adopted a declaration rejecting the use of religion to justify hatred, insults and violence.
‘Diversity is the law of nature, unity is the truth’
Bhagwat said different religions represented different paths towards the same ultimate truth and stressed the need to respect diversity and protect the dignity of every individual.
Referring to his 2018 interaction with members of the Muslim community, he reiterated his earlier position: “A person who thinks that Muslims should not be in India will not remain a Hindu.”
Acknowledging that changing societal mindsets is a long process, Bhagwat said collective efforts and cooperation among communities could help create broader change, including at the global level.
