Srinagar, Oct 21 (KNO): The people of Kashmir have understood that terror and violence do not bring peace or development, Akhil Bharatiya Sampark Pramukh and RSS leader Ram Lal said on Wednesday, urging people to continue on the path of peace and communal harmony.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Srinagar, Ram Lal as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said Kashmir’s longstanding tradition of coexistence had been affected by terrorism and violence, but expressed satisfaction that people are recognising their consequences. “The culture of Kashmir is very ancient. Everyone used to live together in Kashmir. There is an old tradition of Sanatani saints and an old tradition of Sufi saints,” he said.
“All the people of Kashmir should follow this path and show the way to India,” he said, urging people not to be influenced by outside forces.
He also called for unity among people across caste, religious and linguistic lines, saying, “We should accept everyone, respect everyone and tolerate everyone. This is India.”
On India’s growing global influence, the RSS leader said some world powers might seek to maintain their dominance, adding that India’s progress could contribute to global peace.
Asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks alleging that the RSS considered women subordinate and denied them equal rights, Lal rejected the allegations, calling them “lies”.
“We do not comment on political issues. We do not even comment on political leaders. But there have been a lot of lies about the Sangh for many years,” he said.
He said women held various roles in the organisation and asserted that public support grew through truth rather than false claims. He also invited critics to visit the RSS and understand its functioning.
On the eviction notice issued to Delhi’s historic Race Course Mosque, he said such matters should not be viewed through a religious lens and called for dialogue between governments. “My headquarters is in Mumbai. That is why I do not know all the details,” he said, adding that governments should discuss such matters carefully to avoid conflict.—(KNO)