RSS sings Swadeshi tune, questions FDI in retail

Why do we need to give foreign firms permission to sell soap, oil and vegetables at cost of destroying our retailers? Mohan Bhagwat asked

In the run-up to the state as well as Lok Sabha elections, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has yet again raked up the Swadeshi issue by reiterating its opposition to the foreign direct investment (FDI) in the retail sector.

In an interactive session held on Thursday, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said the true Independence of a human being is in being self-reliant. “Why do we need to give foreign companies permission to sell soap, oil and vegetables at the cost of destroying our retailers?” he asked.

Bhagwat, who had attacked the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government during his annual Dussera rally for the current economic crisis, said the country needed a “balanced and wise” economic policy.  “RSS has always emphasised on Swadeshi to strengthen our independence and promote ahimsa (non-violence),” he noted.

According to him, the country’s policies must empower the common citizen to have the basic capability to provide for food, clothing, housing, health, and the ability to take care of guests at home honourably. “They should not lead to a situation where people are forced to commit suicide for lack of basic requirements. At the same time, we must ensure that proper measures are taken to maintain adequate Forex reserves,” he said.

Jayavantiben Mehata, RSS activist and former BJP minister, shared Bhagwat’s views. She told Business Standard: “FDI in retail in particular will adversely impact the small farmers, traders and ultimately our economy. This apart, the leading Indian players in the retail sector will also have to strive further for their survival in view of stiff competition from foreign investors. Therefore, we need to actively pursue Swadeshi which will benefit the country as a whole.”