Bengaluru: Reacting to Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge’s recent remarks about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), BJP MLA Mahesh Tenginkai on Thursday said that the minister should reflect on his comments and understand the organization before making statements against it.
“Priyank Kharge should think about what he has written. The RSS recently completed 100 years, and celebrations were held across the country. They were rattled by it, which is why they are creating unnecessary problems,” Tenginkai said while addressing the media.
Defending the RSS, the BJP leader highlighted the organization’s widespread presence and influence. “RSS shakhas are held in 65,000 villages across India, and more than 2,000 shakhas operate in 54 countries. This shows the scale of its reach and the trust people have in the organization,” he said.
Tenginkai also extended an invitation to the minister to witness the organization’s activities firsthand. “I urge Kharge ji to attend an RSS shakha once and see what is taught there. He will understand that it is not about politics but about patriotism, discipline, and service to the nation,” he added.
The remarks come amid a growing political war of words between the Congress and the BJP in Karnataka over ideological differences. While Congress leaders have often criticized the RSS for its ideological influence on the BJP, party leaders like Tenginkai continue to defend the Sangh’s role in nation-building and community service.