Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) spokesperson Sunil Ambekar on Wednesday stated that Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb holds no relevance in today’s times, while also emphasizing that RSS does not support any form of violence.
“Aurangzeb is not relevant today. No form of violence is encouraged,” Ambekar said, addressing growing tensions over demands by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other groups to remove Aurangzeb’s tomb from Shambhaji Nagar.
His remarks come amid unrest in Nagpur, where violent clashes broke out on March 17 over demands to remove Aurangzeb’s tomb. The police have detained 50 people, and a curfew remains in effect for the second consecutive day across ten police districts.
DCP Rahul Maknikar assured that the situation is under control, stating, “The investigation is underway. We have formed 10 teams. We have detained 50 people so far.”
Meanwhile, the Judicial Magistrate First Class Court (JMFC) has remanded 19 of the accused in police custody until March 21.
Maharashtra’s Junior Minister for Home (Urban) Yogesh Kadam condemned the Nagpur violence, calling it a serious matter. He assured that the strictest action would be taken against those responsible for attacking Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP)-level officers and other police personnel.
Sunil Ambekar’s comments also come as the RSS prepares for its centenary celebrations. The organization will complete 100 years on Vijayadashami 2025, and it plans to assess the expansion of its Shakha units and its overall growth.
“The centenary year will be celebrated from 2025-26. We will assess the expansion of Shakha and the targets set. Five key areas—family awakening, social connect, citizen awareness, and others—will be discussed along with plans to increase public participation,” Ambekar said.
The RSS leadership, including chief Mohan Bhagwat and General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, will participate in discussions on the organization’s future roadmap and national growth.
“Two key proposals will be discussed—the situation in Bangladesh and the RSS’ 100-year journey, along with planning for the future,” he added.
As part of the centenary, special training sessions will be held for members under 40 years of age and another for those between 40 and 60 years.
“The numbers speak for themselves. More youngsters are joining RSS, and even if they can’t reach physically, they are reaching out through our website,” Ambekar stated.
