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Congress Uses Gandhi’s Words to Criticize RSS’s Outlook

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As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrates its 100th anniversary, the Congress party has ignited a fresh debate about the organization by referencing Mahatma Gandhi’s views. They claim that Gandhi once described the RSS as a ‘communal body with a totalitarian outlook’.

On Thursday, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh took to X to unveil a conversation documented by Pyarelal, a significant aide of Gandhi. Ramesh emphasized that Pyarelal served on Gandhi’s personal staff for nearly thirty years and became his secretary after Mahadev Desai’s death in 1942.

Ramesh mentioned that Pyarelal’s works have earned authoritative status in the study of Gandhi. His landmark book, “Mahatma Gandhi: The Last Phase”, first published in 1956, features contributions from prominent figures including the then President Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Vice President Dr. S. Radhakrishnan.

In the second volume of this book, released in 1958, Ramesh pinpointed a conversation from September 12, 1947, on page 440, where Gandhi explicitly called the RSS a ‘communal body with a totalitarian outlook’.

Ramesh also noted that just five months after this conversation, Union Home Minister Sardar Patel implemented a ban on the RSS.

Furthermore, Ramesh shared a screenshot from Pyarelal’s book, which he claims underlines Gandhi’s critical perspective towards the RSS. This comes in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi praising the organization for its contributions to nation-building during a centenary event on Wednesday.

In a pointed retort, Ramesh reminded Prime Minister Modi of Patel’s remarks regarding the RSS, suggesting that the organization fostered an environment contributing to Gandhi’s assassination. He questioned Modi’s awareness of Patel’s correspondence with Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee dated July 18, 1948.

In the letter, Patel conveyed a strong message, mentioning that while he remained cautious about discussing the pending case concerning Gandhi’s murder, reports suggested that the activities of the RSS created conditions conducive to such a tragic event. His assertions categorized the RSS as a clear threat to governmental authority, emphasizing that their activities appeared to intensify despite the ban.

Moreover, during a massive public gathering in Jaipur on December 19, 1948, Sardar Patel voiced similar concerns about the RSS, reinforcing the narrative that the organization posed a significant threat to the state.

The clash of narratives highlights ongoing tensions between the ruling party and the Congress over interpretations of India’s historical and ideological foundations.

As such conversations revive interest in Gandhi’s legacy, the Congress continues to leverage historical context to challenge contemporary nationalism as defined by RSS supporters. As national discussions evolve, the Congress aims to remind citizens of the differing perceptions of patriotism and national unity throughout India’s complex history.

President Murmu, PM Modi Pay Homage To Gandhi, Shastri On Birth Anniversary

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversary in New Delhi on Thursday.

PM Modi said his government will follow Gandhi’s path for building a developed India.

He said on X, “Gandhi Jayanti is about paying homage to the extraordinary life of beloved Bapu, whose ideals transformed the course of human history. He demonstrated how courage and simplicity could become instruments of great change.” PM Modi said Gandhi believed in the power of service and compassion as essential means of empowering people.

He also paid homage to India’s second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, whose birth anniversary, too, fell on Thursday.

He lauded him as an extraordinary statesman whose integrity, humility, and determination strengthened India.

“He personified exemplary leadership, strength and decisive action. His clarion call of ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ ignited a spirit of patriotism among our people. He continues to motivate us in the endeavour of building a strong and self-reliant India,” the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi, who has been passionately promoting swadeshi, said buying products made by Indians will be a true tribute to Gandhi and Shastri.

Swadeshi is the foundation of a self-reliant and developed India, he added.

This year marks the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, remembered as the Father of the Nation for his pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle

Born in Gujarat in 1869, Gandhi is considered the most influential Indian of his era as he shaped the country’s freedom movement through truth and non-violence, winning worldwide following.

Shastri was born in Uttar Pradesh in 1904 and rose to become the country’s Prime Minister after the death of Jawaharlal Nehru. His honesty and leadership of the country in his short stint as prime minister during which India fought a war with Pakistan earned him universal praise. (Agencies)

Ex-President Kovind: Good People Avoiding Politics

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Former President Ram Nath Kovind expressed concerns on Thursday about the increasing reluctance of good people to engage in politics. Speaking as the chief guest at the annual Vijayadashmi rally of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Reshimbagh ground, Kovind called upon the youth of India to actively participate in shaping the nation’s political landscape.

Kovind’s remarks came during a significant occasion that also celebrated the centenary of the RSS, an organization founded by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on Dussehra in 1925. He noted his deep admiration for both Hedgewar and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, stating, “I was inspired by the values of national unity and social harmony shared by Dr. Ambedkar and Dr. Hedgewar.” He emphasized the importance of these values in fostering a robust and inclusive political environment.

During his address, Kovind asserted that the RSS promotes an ethos free from casteism and discrimination. “There is no casteism and discrimination in RSS,” he said, underlining the organization’s commitment to social welfare and unity. He further elaborated that the founder’s “vichar” (thoughts) have profoundly influenced his understanding of society and the country’s well-being.

The former president lamented the absence of principled individuals in politics, stating, “Good people are not joining politics.” He reiterated the necessity for active youth engagement in governance and political reform, which he believes is crucial for a vibrant democracy.

Kovind announced that he is in the process of writing a book titled ‘Triumph of the Indian Republic,’ where he aims to discuss the country’s political evolution and the key figures who shaped it. This book, as he explained, seeks to inspire future generations to take pride in India’s democratic framework.

In conclusion, Kovind’s powerful remarks at the Vijayadashmi rally resonate with a broader societal concern — the need for integrity and earnestness in politics. His call to action serves as a reminder of the responsibility of young Indians to participate in the nation’s governance, ensuring that true representations of integrity and values continue to flourish within the political sphere.

India Achieved All Objectives Of Operation Sindoor: Rajnath Singh

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Oct 2: The Indian military successfully achieved all the objectives of Operation Sindoor but its fight against cross-border terrorism will continue, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday.

Singh said Pakistan made an unsuccessful attempt to penetrate India’s defence system during Operation Sindoor but the Indian military “exposed” the Pakistani air defence apparatus and sent a message to the world that it can inflict heavy losses on the adversary.

The defence minister was addressing a group of soldiers at a military base in Gujarat’s Bhuj ahead of performing a ‘shastra puja’ (worship of weapons) on the occasion of Dussehra.

“During Operation Sindoor, Pakistan made an unsuccessful attempt to penetrate India’s defence system from Leh to Sir Creek,” he said.

“However, in its retaliatory action, Indian forces completely exposed the Pakistani air defence system and sent a message to the world that Indian forces can inflict heavy losses on Pakistan whenever and wherever they wish,” he said.

Singh said India displayed restraint because its military action was against terrorism.

“Escalating it and starting a war was not the objective of Operation Sindoor. I am happy that Indian forces have successfully achieved all the military objectives of Operation Sindoor. But our fight against terrorism continues,” he said. (Agencies)

Ladakh admin says Wangchuk’s NSA detention on credible grounds denies ‘witch-hunt’

Ladakh Administration has rejected claims of a “witch-hunt” or a “smoke-screen” operation against activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained under the National Security Act last week. It asserted that the actions taken by law enforcement agencies were based on credible inputs and documents.

The administration appealed that the process of law should be allowed to take its own course and expressed confidence that “together we will bring back normalcy in the peace-loving Leh township and continue with our dialogue process”.

Wangchuk, the primary face of the agitation seeking statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards for Ladakh, was detained under the stringent NSA following the violent clashes between protesters and security personnel on September 24.

Talks between the Centre and representatives from Ladakh have hit a roadblock with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) backing the Leh Apex Body’s (LAB) decision to suspend dialogue until Wangchuk and others were released.

Terming the release of Wangchuk and others as the key condition for resuming negotiations, scheduled for October 6, the two powerful organisations also demanded a judicial inquiry into the police firing in Leh that left four people dead and scores of others injured.

Gitanjali Angmo, Wangchuk’s wife and co-founder of the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), has alleged that a “witch-hunt” was underway to project her husband as an “anti-national.”

She claimed there was “no need to impose the NSA on Sonam Wangchuk” and asserted that authorities have not provided her with formal documents detailing the charges.

In a statement issued on Tuesday night, the Department of Information and Public Relations said, “The administration of UT of Ladakh would like to clarify a few issues in the background of a series of press conferences and media statements given by certain sections.

“There have been reports in the media of baseless allegations of victimisation of certain individuals, including Wangchuk, by government agencies. There is no question of witch-hunting or smoke screen,” it said.

The administration said actions taken by the law enforcement agencies were based on credible inputs and documents. “The agencies should be allowed to continue with their investigation impartially without vitiating the process.”

It said the case of financial irregularities and foreign currency violations by HIAL is under investigation by agencies. “Prima facie, there is evidence available, which merits such investigation.”

Further, the statement said, despite knowing that it is not a recognised university, HIAL is issuing degrees to young men and women, jeopardising their future prospects.

“HIAL did not make full disclosure of foreign funds in their balance sheets in the relevant Financial Years. FCRA cancellation of SECMOL is based on clear evidence of multiple violations (not just one).

“After observing these irregularities, appropriate action has been taken. There are established processes and forums available to appeal to the appropriate authorities, which the organisation can resort to,” it said.

It said the government had already announced dates for talks on September 20 and had also expressed flexibility for dates, taking into consideration the convenience of the Ladakh leaders.

“Still, Wangchuk made multiple provocative statements. He gave the reference of Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on several occasions from the Anshan venue, trying to incite the public, especially the youth,” it said.

During an interview with Ladakh Express on September 11, the statement said, Wangchuk stated, “the youth are saying that they do not want peace and Mahatma Gandhi’s path is not necessary. People are not scared of the security forces deployed, and if people come out worse may happen.

“Before starting his anshan, Wangchuk suggested (Sept 9) people to wear masks, caps and hoodies, etc., while participating in the protest, citing Covid as an excuse, though there is no sign of spread of Covid in Ladakh,” it said.

He said Wangchuk, in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel ‘Achoe Nyingstam’ (a dedicated channel for the Ladakhi audience wherein he speaks only in vernacular), stated (June 8, 2025) that he would bring an ‘Arab Spring’ type revolution in India to overthrow the government.

“Wangchuk had suggested ‘overthrow’ of government on the lines of ‘Arab Spring’, if their demands were not met, besides putting forth the idea of self-immolation for instigating agitation for this purpose, as happened in Arab countries including Tunisia,” the statement said.

On multiple occasions, the statement said he suggested self-immolation by Ladakhis on the lines of protests in Tibet.

Referring to the September 24 violent protests, it said even though other LAB leaders, including elders, rushed to pacify the aggressive crowd, Wangchuk made no attempts to ensure peace.

“When the situation was out of control, Wangchuk called off his fast and discreetly moved out from the backside of the anshan venue, thereby indicating his overall sense of irresponsibility,” it said.

It said Wangchuk did not call off his hunger strike despite the government announcing the date of the next meeting of the High Powered Committee, although he sat on the strike demanding talks with the government.

“The government also expressed flexibility for dates as per the convenience of the Ladakh leaders. This irresponsible act of continuation of the hunger strike for personal and political gain is responsible for all the further unfortunate developments,” the statement said.

RBI Upgrades FY26 GDP Growth to 6.8%, Cuts Inflation to 2.6%

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday announced a significant revision in its economic forecasts, projecting the gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate for the fiscal year 2025-26 at 6.8 percent. It also lowered the inflation forecast to 2.6 percent, attributing these changes to an above-normal monsoon and the rationalisation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates.

In August, the RBI had estimated a 6.5 percent growth rate for the same fiscal year, along with an inflation forecast of 3.1 percent. The recent adjustments indicate a more optimistic outlook, reflecting crucial developments on both domestic and international fronts.

During the announcement of the bi-monthly monetary policy, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra highlighted the strength of the Indian economy, which demonstrated growth during the first quarter of FY26. Malhotra noted that the good monsoon season has positively influenced economic performance. “We observe a higher growth in Q1 2025-26, alongside a considerable moderation in headline inflation,” he stated.

Regarding the impact of GST rationalisation, Malhotra emphasized its potential to encourage consumption and spur economic growth while simultaneously having a calming effect on inflation. He acknowledged that while domestic factors are promising, global economic conditions, including recent US tariffs, could dampen export performance.

“Considering these diverse elements, we have revised the real GDP growth for 2025-26 to 6.8 percent, with projections of 7.0 percent for Q2, 6.4 percent for Q3, and 6.2 percent for Q4,” he explained. The GDP growth rate for the initial quarter of 2026-27 is expected to be around 6.4 percent.

Malhotra also noted that inflation conditions remain under control, with actual inflation outcomes significantly lower than previous predictions. “The low inflation levels can be primarily traced to a sharp decline in food prices, driven by improved supply chains and effective government interventions,” he elaborated.

The core inflation rate has stayed relatively unchanged, with August figures reporting at 4.2 percent. This stability exists despite ongoing pricing pressures on precious metals. The RBI’s revised Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation forecast for 2025-26 now indicates 2.6 percent inflation, with quarterly estimates showing 1.8 percent for Q2, 1.8 percent for Q3, and 4.0 percent for Q4. Looking ahead, the CPI inflation rate for the first quarter of 2026-27 is projected at 4.5 percent.

This revised economic outlook signals the resilience of the Indian economy in navigating both domestic challenges and external pressures. Analysts and economists will closely monitor these developments, as they play a pivotal role in shaping monetary policy and influencing market confidence in the upcoming fiscal year.

At Least 69 People Killed In Powerful Earthquake That Hit The Philippines

At least 69 people were killed in a powerful earthquake that hit a central Philippine province where dozens of people were killed by a powerful earthquake Tuesday night.

 The magnitude-6.9 earthquake that hit at about 10 pm trapped an unspecified number of residents in collapsed houses, nightclubs and other businesses in the hard-hit city of Bogo and outlying rural towns in Cebu province, officials said.

Rescuers scrambled to find survivors Wednesday. Army troops, police and civilian volunteers backed by backhoes and sniffer dogs were deployed Wednesday to carry out house-to-house searches for survivors.

The epicentre of the earthquake, which was set off by movement in an undersea fault line at a dangerously shallow depth of 5 kilometres, was about 19 kilometres northeast of Bogo, a coastal city of about 90,000 people in Cebu province where about half of the deaths were reported, officials said.

The death toll in Bogo was expected to rise, according to officials, who said intermitted rain and damaged bridges and roads were hampering the race to save lives.

“We’re still in the golden hour of our search and rescue,” Office of Civil Defence deputy administrator Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV said in a news briefing. “There are still many reports of people who were pinned or hit by debris.”

The Philippine government is considering whether to seek help from foreign governments based on an ongoing rapid damage assessment, Alejandro said.

Workers were trying to transport a backhoe to hasten search and rescue efforts in a cluster of shanties in a mountain village hit by a landslide and boulders, Bogo city disaster-mitigation officer Rex Ygot told The Associated Press early Wednesday.

“It’s hard to move in the area because there are hazards,” said Glenn Ursal, another disaster-mitigation officer, who added that some survivors were brought to a hospital from the mountain village.

Deaths also were reported from the outlying towns of Medellin and San Remigio, where three coast guard personnel, a firefighter and a child were killed separately by collapsing walls and falling debris while trying to flee to safety from a basketball game in a sports complex that was disrupted by the quake, town officials said.

The earthquake was one of the most powerful to batter the central region in more than a decade and it struck while many people slept or were at home.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology briefly issued a tsunami warning and advised people to stay away from the coastlines of Cebu and the nearby provinces of Leyte and Biliran due to possible waves of up to 1 metre.

No such waves were reported and the tsunami warning was lifted more than three hours later, but thousands of traumatised residents refused to return home and chose to stay in open grassy fields and parks overnight despite intermittent rains.

Cebu and other provinces were still recovering from a tropical storm that battered the central region on Friday, leaving at least 27 people dead mostly due to drownings and falling trees, knocking out power in entire cities and towns and forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.

Schools and government offices were closed in the quake-hit cities and towns while the safety of buildings were checked. More than 600 aftershocks have been detected after Tuesday night’s temblor, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology director Teresito Bacolcol said.

Rain-soaked mountainsides were more susceptible to land- and mudslides in a major earthquake, he warned.

“This was really traumatic to people. They’ve been lashed by a storm then jolted by an earthquake,” Bacolcol said. “I don’t want to experience what they’ve gone through.”

The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, is often hit by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an arc of seismic faults around the ocean. The archipelago is also lashed by about 20 typhoons and storms each year. (AP)

PM Modi Hails RSS’ Role In Nation-Building, Says It Showed No Bitterness Despite Attacks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lauded the RSS on its centenary celebrations, and said the organisation never displayed any bitterness despite several attacks on it as it continued to work on the principle of nation first.

Participating in the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) here, Modi highlighted the contribution of the Sangh in nation-building and said it reached every corner of the country with the goal of fostering harmony by removing divisions of caste or creed and spreading the message of an inclusive society.

“The Sangh has fought against the atrocities of the British. Their only interest has always been love towards the nation,” Modi said, adding that Sangh volunteers gave shelter to freedom fighters and its leaders were also jailed during the freedom struggle.

The prime minister said there have been numerous attempts to crush the spirit of the RSS by levelling allegations and registering false cases.

“The RSS has never been bitter, despite attempts to make false cases against them, attempts to ban them, and other challenges, because we are part of society where we accept both the good and the bad,” he said, in an apparent reference to the ban on the RSS after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Modi said even the then RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar was falsely implicated in a case and sent to jail.

“Yet, when he came out, he said with calm wisdom: ‘At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break teeth’,” the prime minister said.

He said every ‘swayamsevak’ has unflinching trust in democracy and constitutional institutions, which gave them strength when faced with challenges.

“When Emergency was imposed, this trust gave strength to every swayamsevak to face it,” he said.

The prime minister also released a special postage stamp and a commemorative coin to mark the centenary of the RSS.

“The Rs 100 coin features the national emblem on one side and on the other side it depicts a majestic image of Bharat Mata in Varada Mudra with a lion, while swayamsevaks are shown bowing before her in devotion and dedication,” Modi said.

“For the first time in the history of independent India the image of Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency which marks a moment of great pride and historical significance,” he said.

The prime minister said the foundation of RSS on Vijaya Dashmi 100 years ago was not just a coincidence, it was the resurrection of a tradition which has been continuing for thousands of years.

“The Sangh has been synonymous with patriotism and service since its inception,” he said.

Modi asserted that the RSS believes in ‘One India, Great India’ yet post-Independence attempts were made to prevent it from joining the national mainstream “Unity in diversity has always been the soul of India, if this principle is broken then India will weaken. Despite challenges, the RSS stands strong and is tirelessly serving the nation,” he added.

The centenary celebrations were organised by the Ministry of Culture and attended by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

Founded in 1925 in Nagpur by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS was established as a volunteer-based organisation with an aim to foster cultural awareness, discipline, service and social responsibility among citizens.

Modi was himself an RSS ‘pracharak’ and made a mark as an able organiser before being shifted to the BJP, which draws its ideological inspiration from the Hindutva organisation. (Agencies)

A proud moment for Jammu Daughter of Jammu & Kashmir Shines on National Stage

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Advocate Gayatri Jamwal, hailing from Jammu, has brought pride to the Union Territory by being crowned as Mrs. India Inc. Beyond People’s Choice Winner 2025. Celebrated for her warmth, authenticity, and resilience, Gayatri has emerged as a voice of inspiration for women across India.

A lawyer, author, and passionate animal rights crusader, Gayatri fights battles in court, writes stories that heal, and gives a voice to the voiceless. Rooted in the discipline of her army background and guided by her faith as a follower of Nichiren Buddhism, she draws strength from Shiv and Shakti, her parents’ unwavering support, and the silent eyes of every rescued animal who reminds her to never give up.

Representing Jammu & Kashmir, a land where warriors drew swords, sages found wisdom, and daughters continue to draw strength from Ma Durga ,Gayatri now aspires to establish India’s first chain of 24-hour animal hospitals, blending law, compassion, and activism so that no being suffers in silence.

Speaking to the press, she shared her message to women everywhere:

“Your strength is not in waiting to be saved but in daring to save yourself. Wear your scars like jewels, your truth like armour, and your courage like a crown. When you rise, you do not just change your story, you rewrite history.”

Expressing gratitude to the Mrs. India Inc. and Beyond Perfection teams, Gayatri called the platform “not just a pageant, but a revolution” that gave her the mirror to see her own power and wings to carry her purpose to the world.

With this victory, Advocate Gayatri Jamwal has not only carried the crown but also carried forward the pride of Jammu & Kashmir as a true daughter of our soil.

GMC Kathua Secures 1st Rank in J&K for EMRs and Scan & Share Usage

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Today, the Mission Director, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, J&K, launched the Ranking of Health Institutions across Jammu & Kashmir for Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) and Scan & Share usage. In this evaluation, Government Medical College, Kathua proudly secured the 1st Position for the month of August 2025.

This remarkable achievement has been made possible under the dynamic leadership and constant guidance of Dr. Surinder Kumar Atri, Principal, GMC Kathua, with the active support of all Heads of Departments, Medical Superintendent, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Faculty Members, Senior Residents, Medical Record Officer, Junior Residents, Interns, Health & Allied staff, Clerical staff, and Supporting staff members. Their collective dedication in ensuring smooth implementation of EMRs and Scan & Share facilities has set a benchmark in digital healthcare delivery.

The success reflects:

Seamless adoption of digital protocols for patient data management and real-time record keeping.

Dedicated manpower deployment, including trained data entry operators and record management teams, who ensured accuracy and efficiency.

Robust coordination among clinical and non-clinical staff, ensuring that every patient benefitted from Scan & Share services without delay.

Regular training and awareness drives conducted for doctors, nurses, and allied staff for effective digital record handling.

Strong IT infrastructure and resource mobilization to support the uninterrupted functioning of digital systems.

Patient-centric approach, where timely generation, scanning, and sharing of records improved overall treatment experience.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal Dr. Surinder Kumar Atri expressed pride in the efforts of the entire GMC Kathua family, stating that “This achievement is not just a rank, but recognition of the collective hard work, discipline, and commitment of our institution towards embracing digital healthcare and improving patient care.”

The recognition of GMC Kathua as the top institution in J&K for EMRs and Scan & Share usage is a testament to the institution’s dedication to digital transformation in healthcare, aligned with the vision of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

Via NFJM