Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed concern over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during his Independence Day speech, stating it disrespects the significance of the day and India’s freedom struggle. In a statement, Vijayan questioned Modi’s attempt to highlight the RSS’s role in the independence movement, noting the organization’s controversial past, including its ban following Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination.

Vijayan described Modi’s remarks as a misrepresentation of history, asserting that they cannot overshadow the RSS’s record of divisive politics. “The Prime Minister’s use of the Independence Day speech to praise the RSS is tantamount to undermining the day itself,” he said, emphasizing the need to honor the true legacy of the freedom movement.

In his August 15 address, Modi marked the RSS’s 100-year journey, calling it the “world’s biggest NGO” and commending its volunteers’ service. A former RSS pracharak, Modi described the organization’s history as a “proud and glorious page” for India.

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Vijayan also pointed to a Union Petroleum Ministry greeting card placing V.D. Savarkar’s image above Gandhi’s, suggesting it reflects a broader effort to reshape historical narratives. He called for unity to preserve India’s history of compassion against attempts to promote division.

The statement has sparked debate, with some viewing it as a defense of secular values, while others see it as politicizing a national event. Vijayan’s remarks highlight ongoing discussions about India’s historical narrative and its future direction.

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