It is very difficult to understand the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) but very easy to misunderstand it. This is what can be said about the largest voluntary movement in the world that is completing 100 years on this year’s Vijayadashami. That is also the reason for a political debate that has started after Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the RSS for its selfless contribution to nation-building from the ramparts of the Red Fort during his Independence Day speech.

Let us take a look at 10 key tenets that are key to understanding the RSS:

First, RSS is not an organisation in society, but it is organising society. So, it can’t be looked at from the traditional or any other existing lens of analysing non-governmental organisations or, in fact, any other organisation.

Second, RSS’s only work is to create people with strong character who are committed to the service of the society and nation. Whatever work is done, it is done by the RSS volunteers known as “swayamsevaks". And as they work closely with society in different fields, the credit for any change or betterment goes to society itself. Thus, neither the RSS nor its volunteers seek recognition for any achievements.

Third, the objective of the RSS is to transform society. This “transformation" would be achieved, according to the RSS, when every individual would get an opportunity to realise their full potential.

Fourth, when this objective is achieved, the RSS should just merge with the whole society and vanish. And when history is recorded, no credit should be given to the RSS, as it is the society that has transformed itself.

Fifth, the RSS believes in a holistic perspective and........

© News18