‘LoP means Leader of Partying’: BJP takes jibe at Rahul Gandhi; critiques Congress’ priorities amid Bihar polls

‘LoP means Leader of Partying’: BJP takes jibe at Rahul Gandhi; critiques Congress’ priorities amid Bihar polls

BJP, taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi’s jungle safari ahead of the Bihar elections, said that for him LoP stands for “Leader of Partying” or “Leader of Paryatan (tourism).” Shehzad Poonawalla, on a post on X, shared his comment on Rahul Gandhi’s safari in Panchmarhi, Madhya Pradesh. “LoP means Leader of Paryatan and partying for…

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Congress leader Shashi Tharoor lauded veteran BJP leader LK Advani on his birthday. Tharoor compared Advani’s legacy to that of Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. This drew criticism online, with some accusing him of downplaying Advani’s controversial political history. Advani’s 1990 Ram Rath Yatra and the subsequent Babri Masjid demolition remain significant events in India’s past. LK Advani and Shashi Tharoor (File photo) NEW DELHI: Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor has once again appeared to display a soft corner for the ruling BJP, this time praising its veteran leader and former deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani. Tharoor not only lauded Advani’s decades of public service but also defended his political legacy, drawing a parallel between him and former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. He said that just as Nehru should not be judged solely by the “China setback” and Indira Gandhi not only by the Emergency, the same fairness should be extended to one of the BJP’s founding members.”Reducing his long years of service to one episode, however significant, is also unfair. The totality of Nehruji’s career cannot be judged by the China setback, nor Indira Gandhi’s by the Emergency alone. I believe we should extend the same courtesy to Advaniji,” Tharoor wrote on X.His remarks came as he wished Advani on his 98th birthday on November 8, praising his “unwavering commitment to public service, modesty and decency,” and calling him “a true statesman.” “Wishing the venerable Shri LK Advani a very happy 98th birthday! His unwavering commitment to public service, his modesty & decency, and his role in shaping the trajectory of modern India are indelible. A true statesman whose life of service has been exemplary,” Tharoor wrote.However, Tharoor’s tribute sparked criticism online, with several users accusing him of “whitewashing” Advani’s political legacy. Supreme Court advocate Sanjay Hegde hit out at Tharoor, saying, “Sorry Mr Tharoor, unleashing the ‘dragon seeds of hatred’ (to quote Khushwant Singh) in this country is NOT public service,” in reference to Advani’s 1990 Ram Rath Yatra.Responding to the criticism, Tharoor reiterated his stance, arguing for a broader view of Advani’s career. Hegde, however, countered that the Rath Yatra “was not an episode” but “a long march to reverse the foundational principles of the Indian Republic,” adding, “It set the stage for 2002 and 2014 and thereafter. Like Draupadi’s dishonour set the stage for the Mahabharata that followed, the Rathyatra and its legacy of violence continue to haunt the destiny of this country.”Earlier the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bharat Ratna Advani at his residence in New Delhi to convey birthday greetings. Describing him as “a statesman blessed with towering vision and intellect,” PM Modi wrote on X, “Advani Ji’s life has been dedicated to strengthening India’s progress. He has always embodied the spirit of selfless duty and steadfast principles. His contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s democratic and cultural landscape. May he be blessed with good health and a long life.”Advani’s Ram Rath Yatra, launched from Somnath in Gujarat on September 25, 1990, and halted in Bihar by then chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, was one of the most defining and divisive events in Indian politics. The campaign, which called for the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, led to Advani’s arrest on the orders of then Prime Minister VP Singh.Two years later, on December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid was demolished, an event that reshaped the political and communal landscape of India. More than three decades later, on January 22, 2024, the Ram Mandir was inaugurated, with Prime Minister Modi performing the pran pratishtha ceremony, marking the culmination of the movement Advani had once led.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Unveils ₹8,000 Crore Projects to Boost Uttarakhand’s InfrastructureEvery Indian Shares Ancestral Roots, No ‘Ahindu’ Exists: Mohan BhagwatFormer Army Commander Warns of Rising Extremist Threat from BangladeshPM Modi Highlights Legal Reforms, Stresses Need for Law in Local Languages‘Rallies Cancelled Due to Low Response’ Congress Responds to PM’s ‘Reject Katta Sarkar…’ RemarkMohsin Naqvi Cornered At ICC Meet In Dubai; Asia Cup Trophy Dispute Turns Into Diplomatic Face-Off‘Bulldozer Will Roll Over Corruption’: Yogi Adityanath’s Fierce Attack on RJD-Congress’Modi Runs Empire Of Fear, We’re Fighting Mahatma’s Battle’: Priyanka Gandhi Targets PM In BiharDeadlock Deepens: Afghanistan Calls Pakistan Irresponsible As Peace Talks Break Down Once AgainPM Modi’s ‘65-Volt Jhatka’ Jibe Rocks Bihar Rally, Mocks Rahul’s Pond Dive As ‘Doobne Ki Practice’123PhotostoriesFrom Kartik Aaryan’s ‘Shehzada’ to Hrithik Roshan’s ‘Vikram Vedha’: South Indian remakes that flopped in Bollywood7 animals whose names start with letter Y7 mushroom varieties to try this winterMaster workplace communication with these 5 strategies from Harvard expertsBigg Boss Malayalam 7 Grand Finale: Everything you need to knowFrom ‘Sardar Udham’ to ‘Sam Bahadur’: Vicky Kaushal’s top movies to watch on OTT9 emotional animals that show love and grief just Like humansFrom heated arguments with Divya Ganesh to special moments with Aurora: Evicted contestant Tushar’s Bigg Boss Tamil 9 journeyBollywood tales where virtue always triumphs over darknessBollywood tales where revenge becomes a path to redemption and inner change123Hot PicksStock market holidayBank HolidayBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingMarshawn Kneeland Cause of DeathMLB Trade RumorsMLB Trade Rumors Detroit TigersMicah ParsonsFortnite OG Butterfly Live EventMarshawn Kneeland NewsNHL Injury UpdateBO Nix WifeNew Vande Bharat ExpressIndia World Cup Cash Prize

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor lauded veteran BJP leader LK Advani on his birthday. Tharoor compared Advani’s legacy to that of Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. This drew criticism online, with some accusing him of downplaying Advani’s controversial political history. Advani’s 1990 Ram Rath Yatra and the subsequent Babri Masjid demolition remain significant events in India’s past. LK Advani and Shashi Tharoor (File photo) NEW DELHI: Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor has once again appeared to display a soft corner for the ruling BJP, this time praising its veteran leader and former deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani. Tharoor not only lauded Advani’s decades of public service but also defended his political legacy, drawing a parallel between him and former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. He said that just as Nehru should not be judged solely by the “China setback” and Indira Gandhi not only by the Emergency, the same fairness should be extended to one of the BJP’s founding members.”Reducing his long years of service to one episode, however significant, is also unfair. The totality of Nehruji’s career cannot be judged by the China setback, nor Indira Gandhi’s by the Emergency alone. I believe we should extend the same courtesy to Advaniji,” Tharoor wrote on X.His remarks came as he wished Advani on his 98th birthday on November 8, praising his “unwavering commitment to public service, modesty and decency,” and calling him “a true statesman.” “Wishing the venerable Shri LK Advani a very happy 98th birthday! His unwavering commitment to public service, his modesty & decency, and his role in shaping the trajectory of modern India are indelible. A true statesman whose life of service has been exemplary,” Tharoor wrote.However, Tharoor’s tribute sparked criticism online, with several users accusing him of “whitewashing” Advani’s political legacy. Supreme Court advocate Sanjay Hegde hit out at Tharoor, saying, “Sorry Mr Tharoor, unleashing the ‘dragon seeds of hatred’ (to quote Khushwant Singh) in this country is NOT public service,” in reference to Advani’s 1990 Ram Rath Yatra.Responding to the criticism, Tharoor reiterated his stance, arguing for a broader view of Advani’s career. Hegde, however, countered that the Rath Yatra “was not an episode” but “a long march to reverse the foundational principles of the Indian Republic,” adding, “It set the stage for 2002 and 2014 and thereafter. Like Draupadi’s dishonour set the stage for the Mahabharata that followed, the Rathyatra and its legacy of violence continue to haunt the destiny of this country.”Earlier the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bharat Ratna Advani at his residence in New Delhi to convey birthday greetings. Describing him as “a statesman blessed with towering vision and intellect,” PM Modi wrote on X, “Advani Ji’s life has been dedicated to strengthening India’s progress. He has always embodied the spirit of selfless duty and steadfast principles. His contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s democratic and cultural landscape. May he be blessed with good health and a long life.”Advani’s Ram Rath Yatra, launched from Somnath in Gujarat on September 25, 1990, and halted in Bihar by then chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, was one of the most defining and divisive events in Indian politics. The campaign, which called for the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, led to Advani’s arrest on the orders of then Prime Minister VP Singh.Two years later, on December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid was demolished, an event that reshaped the political and communal landscape of India. More than three decades later, on January 22, 2024, the Ram Mandir was inaugurated, with Prime Minister Modi performing the pran pratishtha ceremony, marking the culmination of the movement Advani had once led.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Unveils ₹8,000 Crore Projects to Boost Uttarakhand’s InfrastructureEvery Indian Shares Ancestral Roots, No ‘Ahindu’ Exists: Mohan BhagwatFormer Army Commander Warns of Rising Extremist Threat from BangladeshPM Modi Highlights Legal Reforms, Stresses Need for Law in Local Languages‘Rallies Cancelled Due to Low Response’ Congress Responds to PM’s ‘Reject Katta Sarkar…’ RemarkMohsin Naqvi Cornered At ICC Meet In Dubai; Asia Cup Trophy Dispute Turns Into Diplomatic Face-Off‘Bulldozer Will Roll Over Corruption’: Yogi Adityanath’s Fierce Attack on RJD-Congress’Modi Runs Empire Of Fear, We’re Fighting Mahatma’s Battle’: Priyanka Gandhi Targets PM In BiharDeadlock Deepens: Afghanistan Calls Pakistan Irresponsible As Peace Talks Break Down Once AgainPM Modi’s ‘65-Volt Jhatka’ Jibe Rocks Bihar Rally, Mocks Rahul’s Pond Dive As ‘Doobne Ki Practice’123PhotostoriesFrom Kartik Aaryan’s ‘Shehzada’ to Hrithik Roshan’s ‘Vikram Vedha’: South Indian remakes that flopped in Bollywood7 animals whose names start with letter Y7 mushroom varieties to try this winterMaster workplace communication with these 5 strategies from Harvard expertsBigg Boss Malayalam 7 Grand Finale: Everything you need to knowFrom ‘Sardar Udham’ to ‘Sam Bahadur’: Vicky Kaushal’s top movies to watch on OTT9 emotional animals that show love and grief just Like humansFrom heated arguments with Divya Ganesh to special moments with Aurora: Evicted contestant Tushar’s Bigg Boss Tamil 9 journeyBollywood tales where virtue always triumphs over darknessBollywood tales where revenge becomes a path to redemption and inner change123Hot PicksStock market holidayBank HolidayBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingMarshawn Kneeland Cause of DeathMLB Trade RumorsMLB Trade Rumors Detroit TigersMicah ParsonsFortnite OG Butterfly Live EventMarshawn Kneeland NewsNHL Injury UpdateBO Nix WifeNew Vande Bharat ExpressIndia World Cup Cash Prize

LK Advani and Shashi Tharoor (File photo) NEW DELHI: Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor has once again appeared to display a soft corner for the ruling BJP, this time praising its veteran leader and former deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani. Tharoor not only lauded Advani’s decades of public service but also defended…

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‘Wasn’t sure if I could cross the border’: Jemimah Rodrigues’ hilarious reaction to arriving in Australia to play Women’s Big Bash League | Cricket News

‘Wasn’t sure if I could cross the border’: Jemimah Rodrigues’ hilarious reaction to arriving in Australia to play Women’s Big Bash League | Cricket News

After the World Cup win, Jemimah Rodrigues has teamed up with Brisbane Heat in the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia (Images via AP, Getty) India batter Jemimah Rodrigues shared a light-hearted moment as she joined Brisbane Heat for the 2025 Women’s Big Bash League, making a witty remark about arriving in Australia just days…

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Record in Pakistan! Quinton de Kock equals MS Dhoni’s rare feat | Cricket News

Record in Pakistan! Quinton de Kock equals MS Dhoni’s rare feat | Cricket News

Quinton de Kock and MS Dhoni (Agency Photos) South Africa’s wicket-keeper-batter Quinton de Kock has made a remarkable return to international cricket after coming out of retirement. In his first ODI series against Pakistan at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium, he demonstrated exceptional batting prowess.De Kock opened for South Africa in all three matches, accumulating 239 runs…

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IPO watch: InCred Holdings files confidential papers with Sebi; eyes Rs 3,000-4,000 cr issue

IPO watch: InCred Holdings files confidential papers with Sebi; eyes Rs 3,000-4,000 cr issue

InCred Holdings, the parent entity of NBFC InCred Financial Services, has filed confidential draft IPO papers with markets regulator Sebi, seeking to raise Rs 3,000–4,000 crore, PTI reported citing people familiar with the matter.In a public statement issued on Sunday, the company confirmed PTI that it had submitted “the pre-filed draft red herring prospectus with…

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UGC NET December 2025 correction window opens tomorrow: Check list of editable fields and how to make corrections

UGC NET December 2025 correction window opens tomorrow: Check list of editable fields and how to make corrections

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will open the application correction window for the UGC NET December 2025 session tomorrow, providing candidates a last opportunity to correct mistakes in their submitted forms. This step is crucial as the exam determines eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Assistant Professor roles, and PhD admissions. The correction period is…

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7 effective home exercises to trim belly fat

7 effective home exercises to trim belly fat

Burpees are a high‑intensity, full‑body movement that works your arms, chest, legs and core, while driving your heart rate up. That surge makes them an excellent calorie‑burner, and a reliable way to trim fat belly fat. Research in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, indicates that high‑intensity workouts like burpees, can achieve abdominal‑fat loss, better…

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Gemini Weekly Shani Horoscope, November 10-16, 2025: Saturn clears confusion, focus on what truly matters

Gemini Weekly Shani Horoscope, November 10-16, 2025: Saturn clears confusion, focus on what truly matters

This week asks you to return to your truest self. Saturn’s energy highlights self-discipline and honesty. The karmic lesson is clear: only the version of you built on self-trust will sustain long-term success. Release the need for external validation and focus on inner alignment. Each choice should reflect who you truly are, not what others…

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‘War’s most challenging night’: Ukraine’s power generation at ‘zero’ after Russian assault; winter heating crisis fears loom

‘War’s most challenging night’: Ukraine’s power generation at ‘zero’ after Russian assault; winter heating crisis fears loom

Image used for representative purposes Ukraine is racing to restore power and heating after a massive wave of Russian strikes crippled its energy infrastructure, with the state power company reporting its generation capacity has fallen to “zero.”Russia intensified its assault overnight into Saturday, launching hundreds of drones and missiles against energy facilities across multiple regions….

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RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat defended the organization’s status as a body of individuals, questioning the need for registration with the British government and highlighting post-independence recognition. He also addressed the ‘Love Jihad’ concept, attributing its perceived success to a failure in imparting Hindu values to children, while cautioning against generalizing about the Muslim community. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat NEW DELHI: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday addressed criticisms about the organisation’s registration status, stating that RSS is officially recognised as a body of individuals, after Congress questioned its operations.”RSS was established in 1925, so do you expect us to have registered with the British government?” Bhagwat responded during a RSS-organised question and answer session.He clarified that post-independence, the Government of India did not mandate registration, and RSS is officially categorised and recognised as a body of individuals. Bhagwat further noted that both the Income Tax department and courts have acknowledged RSS as a body of individuals, granting them tax exemption. “We were banned thrice. So government has recognised us. If we were not there, whom did they ban?” Bhagwat pointed out.He further stated that many entities remain unregistered, citing “Even Hindu Dharma is not registered” as an example.Addressing allegations about flag preferences, Bhagwat explained that while saffron holds special significance in RSS as a Guru, they maintain deep respect for the Indian tricolour. “We always respect, offer tribute and protect our tricolour,” he affirmed.These statements followed Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent call for RSS ban. Additionally, his son and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge sought prohibition of RSS activities in government institutions and public spaces, questioning their registration details and funding sources.Support to political partiesBhagwat addressed various other topic included RSS’ political affiliation. On being asked why Sangha does not support any political party, he said, “We do not support any political party. We do not participate in vote politics, current politics, or election politics. Sangha is a work of uniting society and politics, but by nature, it is divisive. So we keep out of politics. We support policies, and especially now that we are a force, we will exert our force to support the right policy. Not individual, not a party, but policy. For example, we wanted to have Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. So our Swayamsevaks supported those who stood by its construction. BJP was there, but if Congress had supported that, our Swayamsevaks would have voted for that party also.”Further asserting his stance, he added, “We don’t have special affinity towards one party. There is no Sangh party. No party is ours, and all parties are ours because they are Bharatiya parties. We support Rashtraneeti, not Rajneeti. We do that publicly. We have our views, and we want to take this country in a particular direction. Those who will drive in that direction particularly, we will support them. We’ll ask the public to think about this and support them. Whatever the public does, it is their prerogative, but we will exert our strength in favour of the Rashtraneeti we feel proud of.”‘Love Jihad, how can that be?’ asks RSS chief BhagwatApart from the registration row, Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday also questioned “love Jihad”. “Love Jihad, how can that be? A girl or boy reared in our Hindu sanskaars as our own, blood of our blood, is led astray by someone outside due to petty attractions. That is our lack. Giving ‘sanskaars’ and ‘maryada’ to our children is our responsibility. We have faltered in it, and the result is the success of Love Jihad… When we see these activities, we bracket the entire Muslim society into one category. That is not good. We are Hindus. We do not think like that,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosEvery Indian Shares Ancestral Roots, No ‘Ahindu’ Exists: Mohan BhagwatFormer Army Commander Warns of Rising Extremist Threat from BangladeshPM Modi Highlights Legal Reforms, Stresses Need for Law in Local Languages‘Rallies Cancelled Due to Low Response’ Congress Responds to PM’s ‘Reject Katta Sarkar…’ RemarkMohsin Naqvi Cornered At ICC Meet In Dubai; Asia Cup Trophy Dispute Turns Into Diplomatic Face-Off‘Bulldozer Will Roll Over Corruption’: Yogi Adityanath’s Fierce Attack on RJD-Congress’Modi Runs Empire Of Fear, We’re Fighting Mahatma’s Battle’: Priyanka Gandhi Targets PM In BiharDeadlock Deepens: Afghanistan Calls Pakistan Irresponsible As Peace Talks Break Down Once AgainPM Modi’s ‘65-Volt Jhatka’ Jibe Rocks Bihar Rally, Mocks Rahul’s Pond Dive As ‘Doobne Ki Practice’From Canada To New Zealand, The World Sings Along As India’s National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ Turns 150123PhotostoriesFrom ‘Sardar Udham’ to ‘Sam Bahadur’: Vicky Kaushal’s top movies to watch on OTT9 emotional animals that show love and grief just Like humansFrom heated arguments with Divya Ganesh to special moments with Aurora: Evicted contestant Tushar’s Bigg Boss Tamil 9 journeyBollywood tales where virtue always triumphs over darknessBollywood tales where revenge becomes a path to redemption and inner change5 smart ways to spend the most wholesome time with partnerEver noticed this face above temple doors? The powerful story of Shiva’s ‘Kirtimukha’From better skin to improved mental health: 6 benefits of eating an orange everydayMust-watch K-dramas: From ‘Last Summer’ to ‘Dynamite Kiss’, new releases heating up November 20255 reasons to consume Pomegranate Amla Juice daily123Hot PicksStock market holidayBank HolidayBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingMarshawn Kneeland Cause of DeathMLB Trade RumorsMLB Trade Rumors Detroit TigersMicah ParsonsFortnite OG Butterfly Live EventMarshawn Kneeland NewsNHL Injury UpdateBO Nix WifeNew Vande Bharat ExpressIndia World Cup Cash Prize

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat defended the organization’s status as a body of individuals, questioning the need for registration with the British government and highlighting post-independence recognition. He also addressed the ‘Love Jihad’ concept, attributing its perceived success to a failure in imparting Hindu values to children, while cautioning against generalizing about the Muslim community. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat NEW DELHI: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday addressed criticisms about the organisation’s registration status, stating that RSS is officially recognised as a body of individuals, after Congress questioned its operations.”RSS was established in 1925, so do you expect us to have registered with the British government?” Bhagwat responded during a RSS-organised question and answer session.He clarified that post-independence, the Government of India did not mandate registration, and RSS is officially categorised and recognised as a body of individuals. Bhagwat further noted that both the Income Tax department and courts have acknowledged RSS as a body of individuals, granting them tax exemption. “We were banned thrice. So government has recognised us. If we were not there, whom did they ban?” Bhagwat pointed out.He further stated that many entities remain unregistered, citing “Even Hindu Dharma is not registered” as an example.Addressing allegations about flag preferences, Bhagwat explained that while saffron holds special significance in RSS as a Guru, they maintain deep respect for the Indian tricolour. “We always respect, offer tribute and protect our tricolour,” he affirmed.These statements followed Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent call for RSS ban. Additionally, his son and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge sought prohibition of RSS activities in government institutions and public spaces, questioning their registration details and funding sources.Support to political partiesBhagwat addressed various other topic included RSS’ political affiliation. On being asked why Sangha does not support any political party, he said, “We do not support any political party. We do not participate in vote politics, current politics, or election politics. Sangha is a work of uniting society and politics, but by nature, it is divisive. So we keep out of politics. We support policies, and especially now that we are a force, we will exert our force to support the right policy. Not individual, not a party, but policy. For example, we wanted to have Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. So our Swayamsevaks supported those who stood by its construction. BJP was there, but if Congress had supported that, our Swayamsevaks would have voted for that party also.”Further asserting his stance, he added, “We don’t have special affinity towards one party. There is no Sangh party. No party is ours, and all parties are ours because they are Bharatiya parties. We support Rashtraneeti, not Rajneeti. We do that publicly. We have our views, and we want to take this country in a particular direction. Those who will drive in that direction particularly, we will support them. We’ll ask the public to think about this and support them. Whatever the public does, it is their prerogative, but we will exert our strength in favour of the Rashtraneeti we feel proud of.”‘Love Jihad, how can that be?’ asks RSS chief BhagwatApart from the registration row, Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday also questioned “love Jihad”. “Love Jihad, how can that be? A girl or boy reared in our Hindu sanskaars as our own, blood of our blood, is led astray by someone outside due to petty attractions. That is our lack. Giving ‘sanskaars’ and ‘maryada’ to our children is our responsibility. We have faltered in it, and the result is the success of Love Jihad… When we see these activities, we bracket the entire Muslim society into one category. That is not good. We are Hindus. We do not think like that,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosEvery Indian Shares Ancestral Roots, No ‘Ahindu’ Exists: Mohan BhagwatFormer Army Commander Warns of Rising Extremist Threat from BangladeshPM Modi Highlights Legal Reforms, Stresses Need for Law in Local Languages‘Rallies Cancelled Due to Low Response’ Congress Responds to PM’s ‘Reject Katta Sarkar…’ RemarkMohsin Naqvi Cornered At ICC Meet In Dubai; Asia Cup Trophy Dispute Turns Into Diplomatic Face-Off‘Bulldozer Will Roll Over Corruption’: Yogi Adityanath’s Fierce Attack on RJD-Congress’Modi Runs Empire Of Fear, We’re Fighting Mahatma’s Battle’: Priyanka Gandhi Targets PM In BiharDeadlock Deepens: Afghanistan Calls Pakistan Irresponsible As Peace Talks Break Down Once AgainPM Modi’s ‘65-Volt Jhatka’ Jibe Rocks Bihar Rally, Mocks Rahul’s Pond Dive As ‘Doobne Ki Practice’From Canada To New Zealand, The World Sings Along As India’s National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ Turns 150123PhotostoriesFrom ‘Sardar Udham’ to ‘Sam Bahadur’: Vicky Kaushal’s top movies to watch on OTT9 emotional animals that show love and grief just Like humansFrom heated arguments with Divya Ganesh to special moments with Aurora: Evicted contestant Tushar’s Bigg Boss Tamil 9 journeyBollywood tales where virtue always triumphs over darknessBollywood tales where revenge becomes a path to redemption and inner change5 smart ways to spend the most wholesome time with partnerEver noticed this face above temple doors? The powerful story of Shiva’s ‘Kirtimukha’From better skin to improved mental health: 6 benefits of eating an orange everydayMust-watch K-dramas: From ‘Last Summer’ to ‘Dynamite Kiss’, new releases heating up November 20255 reasons to consume Pomegranate Amla Juice daily123Hot PicksStock market holidayBank HolidayBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingMarshawn Kneeland Cause of DeathMLB Trade RumorsMLB Trade Rumors Detroit TigersMicah ParsonsFortnite OG Butterfly Live EventMarshawn Kneeland NewsNHL Injury UpdateBO Nix WifeNew Vande Bharat ExpressIndia World Cup Cash Prize

NEW DELHI: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday addressed criticisms about the organisation’s registration status, stating that RSS is officially recognised as a body of individuals, after Congress questioned its operations.“RSS was established in 1925, so do you expect us to have registered with the British government?” Bhagwat responded during a RSS-organised question and answer…

Read More
Updated: Nov 09, 2025, 12:59 IST

Updated: Nov 09, 2025, 12:59 IST

The likely IPL auction and WPL auction dates are out. (Images via Getty) Mumbai: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction is likely to be held on December 15, TOI has learnt. The last two IPL auctions were held in Dubai (2023) and then in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (2024). This time the mini-auction could be…

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Washington Sundar handed special award after series victory in Australia – watch | Cricket News

Washington Sundar handed special award after series victory in Australia – watch | Cricket News

Washington Sundar was named the Impact Player of the Series after India sealed a 2-1 win on Saturday (Screenrgabs/X) Washington Sundar’s consistency and composure through India’s T20I series in Australia were rewarded when he was named the “Impact Player of the Series” after the visitors clinched the contest 2-1. The all-rounder received the medal from…

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Uttarakhand infra boost: PM Modi unveils over Rs 8,000 cr projects in Dehradun; key initiatives in water, energy, sports & more

Uttarakhand infra boost: PM Modi unveils over Rs 8,000 cr projects in Dehradun; key initiatives in water, energy, sports & more

Uttarakhand marked its Silver Jubilee on Sunday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Dehradun to inaugurate multiple development projects and engage with local residents.Governor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Gurmit Singh and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the programme, where PM Modi interacted with stakeholders and addressed the gathering.He said, “This day of November 9th is…

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MPPSC State Service Examination result for 2023 session declared: Check list of top 10 performers here

MPPSC State Service Examination result for 2023 session declared: Check list of top 10 performers here

The Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) has officially announced the final results of the 2023 State Services Examination, signalling a major milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s administrative recruitment process. With 229 vacancies advertised initially, the examination process spanned across preliminary tests, a descriptive mains exam, and interviews. Among thousands of aspirants, the top ranks were…

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