No guarantee of Mathura, Varanasi mosques; grateful to ‘martyrs of Ram Mandir’, says RSS after Ayodhya verdict

Describing the Supreme Court’s verdict on the Ayodhya issue “in the line with the faith and sentiments of the nation” BJP’s parent organisation RSS praised people for “maintaining order and brotherhood”. But it’s chief Mohan Bhagwat gave no guarantee on the issue of Mathura and Varanasi mosques.

The Gyanvapi mosque shares Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, while the Shahi Idgah in Mathura is adjacent to the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex. RSS and its affiliates have been demanding that the land belonging to these mosques, should be handed over to Hindus.

Responding to a query whether the RSS would push “for Kashi and Mathura” now, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that “the Sangh doesn’t get involved in any movement (Andolan). We work towards character building.”

Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Bhagwat evaded the direct reply and said, “In the past, the circumstances were different, resulting in the Sangh getting involved in the movement (Ayodhya). We will once again work for character building.”

Reading out a statement, Bhagwat expressed gratitude towards the martyrs of the Ram Mandir movement.

“In this long-drawn effort, we remember all those who had rendered their services in diverse ways and all martyrs of deep gratitude,” said the RSS chief.

Though he said that the judgement should not be viewed from the “victory and defeat angle” he, in an inexplicit manner sent out a message to its cadres to celebrate the judgement.

“Forces which create discord among people and incite violence should not be patronised and kept away. One should express happiness with restraint, moderation and politeness completely avoiding any provocative or instigating action,” Bhagwat said in the conference.