In a significant policy shift, the Central Government has rescinded the long-standing ban on government employees engaging in activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). This move has ignited a heated exchange between the BJP and Opposition leaders.
The Personnel Ministry’s recent order, dated July 9, ends a restriction imposed 58 years ago. BJP leader Amit Malviya confirmed the withdrawal of what he termed an “unconstitutional order,” which had prohibited government workers from participating in RSS activities since 1966.
Malviya defended the decision, stating, “The unconstitutional order issued 58 years ago, in 1966, banning government employees from engaging with the RSS has been revoked by the Narendra Modi Government. This order should never have been instituted.”
He explained the historical context, “The ban was enforced following a significant anti-cow-slaughter protest on November 7, 1966, where the RSS-Jana Sangh played a major role. The protest led to police firings and numerous casualties. The subsequent ban was a reaction to the RSS-Jana Sangh’s political influence.”
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the Opposition, including Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.
