Former President Ram Nath Kovind expressed concern on Thursday that many “good people” are reluctant to enter the political arena, calling for greater youth engagement in the nation’s political landscape. Speaking at the annual Vijayadashmi rally of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Reshimbagh ground, Nagpur, Kovind emphasized that the participation of morally grounded individuals is essential for the future of Indian politics.
During his address, Kovind underscored the significant influence of RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his philosophy and understanding of governance. He stated, “I was inspired by the values of national unity and social harmony shared by Dr. Ambedkar and Dr. Hedgewar. There is no casteism and discrimination in RSS,” reinforcing the idea that an inclusive approach is crucial for effective political participation.
The former president attributed his clarity about societal issues to the ideological teachings of the RSS founder. He stressed the importance of the ‘vichar’ (thoughts) propagated by Hedgewar, which helped him develop a deeper grasp of the nation’s complexities.
Kovind’s remarks coincided with a broader theme of revitalizing political involvement among youth, a demographic he believes can influence positive change. He lamented, “Good people are not joining politics,” and urged young Indians to take the initiative to engage in politics and governance.
In a personal revelation, Kovind announced that he is currently penning a book titled ‘Triumph of the Indian Republic’, capturing his insights and experiences related to Indian democracy. This initiative aligns with his broader advocacy for fostering political consciousness among the youth.
The Vijayadashmi rally this year held a special significance as it marked the centenary celebrations of the RSS, which was founded by Hedgewar on Dussehra in 1925. The event brought together thousands of participants and served as a platform for reiterating the organization’s commitment to promoting social cohesion and national unity.