Shiv Sena (UBT) on Saturday commended Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat for his outreach to over 70 Muslim clerics and intellectuals, describing the move as a significant gesture amid rising communal polarization attributed to “neo-Hindutva” elements.
In a sharply-worded editorial published in the party mouthpiece Saamana, the Thackeray faction stated that the dialogue initiated by the RSS chief reflects a much-needed effort to bridge societal divisions. “At a time when some seek to distort Hindutva for political gains, the Sarsanghchalak’s initiative deserves praise. The DNA of Hindus and Muslims in this country is the same; both communities must work together. If the boat sinks, we all sink,” the editorial stated.
The editorial further acknowledged Bhagwat’s understanding of the concerns and contributions of Muslim intellectuals, especially amid what it called a “manufactured atmosphere of religious tension” by certain Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) factions.
However, the Thackeray camp questioned whether the RSS’s outreach would be accepted by newer hardline Hindutva voices within the BJP, particularly from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra, and Delhi. The editorial singled out Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane, stating that Bhagwat’s conciliatory stance may not align with Rane’s recent remarks targeting the Muslim community. It even speculated that Rane might consider resigning due to the ideological contrast.
The editorial also criticized those who, it alleged, have used divisive slogans and targeted minorities for electoral benefits. “These so-called defenders of Hindutva must remember that in Maharashtra alone, over 700 farmers have died recently, and individuals like Santosh Deshmukh, Mahadev Munde, and Harshal Patil have lost their lives,” it said, urging reflection on broader national issues.
Touching upon the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the editorial accused Pakistan-backed elements of being responsible while criticizing Union Home Minister Amit Shah for failing to apprehend the perpetrators. It also mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming he remains in a state of “Samadhi” while remaining silent on such matters.
The editorial went on to allege that the BJP is seeking to amend the Waqf Board Act to benefit “cronies” through land deals and warned that such moves could expose deeper political motives. It also took a veiled dig at the Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena, referencing an alleged temple visit involving buffalo slaughter in Guwahati.
It further expressed concern over the rise of ritualism and personality cults, saying, “Some have started viewing Narendra Modi as an incarnation of Vishnu, who wakes up daily and spreads falsehoods applauded by his followers. Such Hindutva is dangerous and anti-national.”
The editorial emphasized the historical contribution of the Muslim community in India’s freedom struggle and defense, noting their sacrifices in wars with Pakistan and citing the roles of figures like Hamid Dalwai and Yusuf Meher Ali. It lamented that newer proponents of Hindutva appear unaware of such contributions.
“Both Hindu and Muslim communities are integral to the nation. Attempts to divide them serve only to harm national unity,” the editorial concluded.
