Controversy Erupts Over Alleged Lift of Ban on Govt Employees' Participation in RSS Activities

Congress Claims Ban Lifted, Authenticity of Order Uncertain

A major controversy has erupted following the Congress party's claim that the Indian government has lifted the ban on government employees participating in Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities. The authenticity of the order, shared by Congress leaders on social media platform X, remains unverified, fueling intense political debate.

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Historical Context of the Ban

The origins of the ban date back to February 1948 when Sardar Patel, then Deputy Prime Minister, imposed it following the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. The ban was briefly lifted later, based on assurances of good behaviour from the RSS, though the organization has remained a contentious entity in Indian politics. In November 1966, an explicit order prohibited government employees from associating with RSS and Jamaat-e-Islami activities, a stance reinforced through subsequent orders in 1970 and 1980.

The Contested Office Memorandum

Congress General Secretary Communications Jairam Ramesh shared an office memorandum dated July 9, issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pension. The memorandum cited reviews of previous orders and announced the removal of the prohibition on RSS activities for government employees. This decision, if verified, would mark a significant policy shift.

Ramesh's post included the memorandum picture, emphasizing historical context: "Sardar Patel had banned the RSS in February 1948 following Gandhi ji's assassination. Subsequently, the ban was withdrawn on assurances of good behaviour. Even after this, the RSS never flew the Tiranga in Nagpur." He further noted the 1966 ban's imposition on government employees participating in RSS activities.

Political Reactions and Implications

Congress leader Pawan Khera echoed these concerns, sharing the July 9 order screenshot and remarking, "58 years ago, the central government had imposed a ban on government employees taking part in the activities of the RSS. The Modi government has withdrawn the order." This comment underscores the longstanding nature of the ban and its recent removal, highlighting potential shifts in the administrative ethos.

Jairam Ramesh also commented on the dynamics between Prime Minister Modi and the RSS, noting a deterioration in relations since June 4, 2024. He observed that even during former Prime Minister Vajpayee's tenure, the ban remained intact. With a touch of sarcasm, Ramesh added, "The bureaucracy can now come in knickers too I suppose," indicating his disapproval of the decision and alluding to the traditional RSS uniform.

Broader Political Ramifications

The November 1966 order not only targeted RSS but also banned government employees from associating with Jamaat-e-Islami activities. This historical context amplifies the significance of lifting such a longstanding restriction, suggesting a major shift in governmental policy and political alignment.

Verification and Ongoing Developments

Document which is shown as proof that Ban on RSS is lifted for joining the Government Services 

The veracity of the purported order remains uncertain, as no official confirmation has been provided. The Congress party's claims have sparked extensive discussion about the implications of government employees participating freely in RSS activities. Observers are closely monitoring the situation for any official statements or clarifications regarding this order.

This development could have far-reaching political ramifications, potentially influencing public perception and altering political dynamics within India. As more information becomes available, the issue underscores ongoing tensions between different political ideologies and their impact on governance policies in India.

The evolving situation continues to attract significant attention, with the potential to become a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape.