Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh): Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai on Monday lashed out at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) following remarks by its General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, who called for a reconsideration of the words “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
Speaking to ANI, Rai strongly condemned the statement, accusing the RSS of undermining India’s secular fabric.
“The organisation that didn’t hoist the tricolour for 52 years at its headquarters is now doing a Tiranga Yatra. This is pure hypocrisy. RSS is helping the government twist the narrative,” Rai said.
🔎 Hosabale’s Remarks Spark Outrage
Dattatreya Hosabale, speaking at an event on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, claimed that “Socialism” and “Secularism” were forcibly inserted into the Constitution during the Emergency and now deserve reconsideration.
He further stated:
“The Emergency wasn’t just about misuse of power but a direct assault on civil liberties. Those who imposed it have yet to apologise.”
⚖️ Rai Defends Secularism
Ajay Rai defended the constitutional values, asserting that secularism is central to India’s identity.
“This country belongs to everyone. Secularism is not just a term—it is our essence. The RSS and BJP want to change this because they fear unity in diversity,” he said.
🏙️ Varanasi, Kanwar Yatra & Development Jabs
The Congress leader also took aim at Yogi Adityanath’s government, claiming Varanasi—PM Modi’s constituency—remains underdeveloped:
“No new factories, schools, or universities have come up. The government uses communal narratives to distract from its failures.”
He also criticised the Kanwar Yatra nameplate order of 2023—later stayed by the Supreme Court—calling it an attempt to polarise the public:
“Kanwar Yatra existed earlier too, but it was never politicised like this. The BJP is deliberately giving it a communal colour,” he said.
Ajay Rai’s strong response adds fuel to the ongoing ideological debate around constitutional amendments, freedom of expression, and communal harmony, as India reflects on the 50 years since the Emergency.