Mallikarjun Kharge Criticises Indian Hockey Team Jersey Colour Change, Attacks RSS

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday criticised the reported decision to change the colour of the Indian men's hockey team's jersey, alleging that it reflects an attempt to impose ideological symbolism on national institutions. In a post on X, Kharge questioned the rationale behind the reported shift from the traditional blue jersey and accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of seeking to leave its ideological imprint on national symbols. He said the issue extends beyond sports and is closely linked to the sentiments of millions of Indians and the country's sporting traditions.

Kharge argued that the reported jersey colour change should not be viewed merely as a sporting decision but as one carrying broader national significance. He alleged that organisations whose ideological traditions, according to him, did not contribute to India's freedom movement are now attempting to influence public institutions and national symbols. Referring to historical events, the Congress chief claimed that the RSS had opposed the national tricolour in the past and cited former Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel while making his remarks.

The Congress leader also highlighted the significance of the three colours of the Indian national flag—saffron, white and green—stating that they have long held an honoured place in the Congress party's flag as well. He further alleged that the Centre has changed the colours of public infrastructure and official branding, including pavements, Parliament employees' attire, the Doordarshan logo, and now, according to him, the Indian hockey team's jersey, without broad public consultation. Kharge urged the government and the relevant sports authorities to reconsider the reported decision.

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Calling for greater transparency, Kharge questioned how such an important decision was taken without the knowledge or approval of Hockey India's Executive Board. He said national symbols, sports and athletes should not become instruments for political experimentation and stressed that any major change to a long-standing sporting identity should involve due consultation. He urged the authorities to clarify the process behind the reported decision and explain the reasons for replacing the traditional blue jersey.

Kharge also emphasised that Indian teams have been widely recognised internationally by identities such as "Men in Blue", "The Blues" and "The Blue Tigers", describing the blue jersey as an important part of India's sporting legacy. He maintained that the issue is not about opposition to any particular colour but about preserving a historic identity and ensuring transparency in decision-making. As of now, there has been no official response from the government or Hockey India to Kharge's remarks regarding the reported jersey colour change.

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