Sunday, May 16, 2010

Dalits and other backward classes

The RSS has advocated the training of Dalits and other backward classes as temple high priests (a position traditionally reserved for Caste Brahmins and denied to lower castes). They argue that the social divisiveness of the Caste system is responsible for the lack of adherence to H1ndu values and traditions and reaching out to the lower castes in this manner will be a remedy to the problem [54]. The RSS has also condemned "upper caste Hindus" for preventing Dalits from worshipping at temples, saying that "even God will desert the temple in which Dalits cannot enter"[55]

During M.K.Gandhi's visit to RSS Camp accompanied by Mahadev Desai and Mirabehn at Wardha. He was surprised by the discipline and the absence of untouchability and commented " When i visited the RSS Camp. I was very much surprised by your discipline and absence of untouchablity ". He personally inquired to Swayamsevaks and found that they are living and eating together in the camp without bothering the difference of cast.[56]

Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar while visiting the RSS camp at Pune in 1939 was surprised to see that Swayamsevaks were moving in absolute equality and brotherhood without even caring to know the cast of others.[57] In his address to the Swayamsevaks, he said that " This is the first time that I am visiting the camp of Sangh volunters. I am happy to find absolute equality between Savarniyas (Upper cast) and Harijans (Lower cast) without any one being aware


contributed by Indian 

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