RSS leader says ‘violence is necessary to protect non-violence’ at Ahmedabad event

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi has raised eyebrows with his statement during a Hindu spiritual event in Ahmedabad. 

“Sometimes, violence becomes necessary to protect the principle of non-violence,” Bhaiyyaji Joshi said.

At the inauguration of the Hindu Spiritual & Service Fair (HSSF), better known as Hindu Adhyatmik Seva Mela, organised by the RSS at the Gujarat University grounds on Thursday, Joshi remarked, “The principle of non-violence is deeply embedded in Hinduism and cannot be denied. However, at times, to protect the idea of non-violence, one has to resort to violence. If this is not done, the very idea of non-violence will not remain secure. Our great ancestors have passed this message down to us.”

Referring to the Mahabharata, he added that even the Pandavas had to overlook the rules of war to eliminate adharma (unrighteousness).

He further stated, “If any religion does not allow people the freedom to practice their faith, then peace cannot be established. There is no other country besides India that is capable of leading the entire world together. The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) is rooted in our spirituality.”

“If we accept the world as one family, there will be no conflicts. When we say that India must be made strong, we are assuring the world that a strong India and a strong Hindu community are in everyone’s interest. This is because we protect the weak and underprivileged. This is the ideology that connects Hindus around the world,” he added.

Joshi emphasised that “Hinduism encompasses religion, spirituality, philosophy, lifestyle, values of life, and service. Hindu religious and spiritual institutions are not limited to rituals or ceremonies alone. They also run many service-oriented initiatives such as schools, hospitals, and Vedic knowledge gurukuls, and they have always been engaged in service. When we talk about religion, the duty of service naturally arises.”

He also pointed out that, “A misconception has been created worldwide that only certain communities engage in service. However, in India, there is a tradition where bhandaras, langars, and food distribution centres operate continuously. In these, around one crore people receive meals daily.”

The fair was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel among other leaders.

The second edition of this fair in Gujarat explores the theme of family and human values. Over 200 religious and social service organisations are participating in the fair.