Sabarimala: Actor-politician Kamal Haasan blames right wing for inciting violence
Chennai, Jan 4: Actor-politician Kamal Haasan has squarely blamed the right-wing for "inciting" violence in Kerala after Hindu fringe groups ran riot in Kerala on Thursday over entry of two women into the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala.
They went on the rampage during the dawn-to-dusk 'Hartal' called by Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of pro-Hindutva groups, and the Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad, to protest the entry of two women of reproductive age into the hill shrine on Wednesday.
"Violence has been incited by the right wing," the veteran actor and Makkal Neethi Maiam chief told reporters at Chennai airport last night when asked about the issue.
Asked about the suspension of 24 AIADMK MPs from the Lok Sabha for staging protests over the Cauvery issue, he merely said "good."
On Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements on January 1 expressing openness for an alliance with him (Haasan) and 'superstar' Rajinikanth, he said "that is his stand."
"But will we go is something we have to decide. We will announce it at a meeting separately," he said.
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RSS chief raises concern over illegal immigration, reiterates push for three-child policy
Mathura (UP) (PTI): RSS chief Mohan Bhagwant on Tuesday raised concerns over illegal immigration in India, asking people to keep a close watch to identify intruders and report them to authorities.
He also reiterated his push for a three-child policy, stressing the need for higher birth rates, while also discouraging "forced" religious conversions.
Speaking after inaugurating an ashram here, Bhagwat highlighted the issue of illegal immigration and said, "People need to keep a closer watch to identify foreigners and ensure that they do not receive employment here."
He, however, said that there should be no discrimination against Indian citizens.
Bhagwat's remarks on intruders come at a time when assembly elections are due in multiple states -- including Assam and West Bengal, where the issue of illegal immigrants has garnered a lot of traction of late. The BJP has also been talking about it frequently.
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On family health and population, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief said doctors recommend three children for sound family health, as childhood interactions help individuals develop social skills and the ability to adjust within a group.
He said population studies warn that a fertility rate below three poses long-term risks.
"Countries with low birth rates have actively sought to increase their population above three," he said.
Bhagwat urged reconsideration of India's population policy, stressing that while legal measures can be applied, public understanding is crucial first.
A humanitarian approach requires families to aim for three children rather than two, he said, asserting that this is essential for the welfare of society.
Bhagwat also called for an end to forced religious conversions.
"The government may legislate, but society must stop this on its own. Many who converted to other religions are descendants of Hindus and may wish to return. Those willing should be welcomed back," he said.
The RSS chief also cited the "aggressive" nature of countries like the US and China, and hailed India as more accommodating of others' viewpoints.
"The US may come around and say that our economic model is the best, and everyone should follow it. China may say our model is best suited for everyone. However, India's approach is not about imposing on others; it believes everyone's viewpoint is correct. It is about living according to dharma, truth and cultural pride. The world may be aggressive, but our model emphasises ethical conduct, which the global community can learn from," he said.
Bhagwat said he had come to inaugurate the ashram out of "affection", as ashrams play a crucial role in shaping life perspective, promoting pride in one's religion and culture while discouraging aggression.
They are necessary in today's times, he said, pointing out that the term "ashram" is unique to Indian culture, without an equivalent translation in any other language.
"An ashram is first a school where life knowledge is taught. Those who stay disciplined and study here can serve society effectively for decades while nurturing their own character," he said.
Bhagwat highlighted that the ultimate human pursuit is moksha, or liberation. He explained the four types of human endeavours, with the fourth being dharma, which is imparted through ashram education and holds immense importance.
He also compared traditional Indian education with global systems, noting that even Finland's acclaimed education model mirrors the Gurukul-ashram approach.
"Here, real knowledge is gained, not just the ability to fill one's stomach," he said, adding that the ashram system instils perseverance and makes life more meaningful through education.
He asserted that India's ancient cultural values and Sanatan Dharma have relevance in today's "turbulent world", and ashrams will remain central in preparing society to uphold these values.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and several seers were among those present at the event.
