Sabarimala verdict doesn't consider people's traditions: Bhagwat

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday stated that the recent Supreme Court verdict, allowing women of all ages to enter Kerala's Sabarimala Temple, did not account for traditions accepted and followed by the people for years.

In his Vijayadashami speech here, Bhagwat said that "decisions taken without considering all aspects and patiently creating the mindset of the society, will neither be adopted in actual practice nor will they help in creating a new social order in tune with changing times and positions."

"The situation arising out of the recent verdict on Sabarimala Temple shows similar predicament. The nature and premise of the tradition that has been accepted by society and continuously followed for years together were not taken into consideration," Bhagawat added.

His comments come in the wake of the 12-hour statewide strike called by the Sabarimala Protection Committee earlier today over the incidents of violence and protests across Kerala in opposition to the September 28 SC verdict, rescinding the ban on the entry of women aged 10 to 50 in the Lord Ayappa shrine.

Bhagwat said that in order for the country to progress, a 'Swa' (self) - based system will have to be adopted, which will include rejuvenating all precincts of national life.

The RSS chief further stated that in the context of honouring the 'Swa' of the nation, the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya "is necessary from the self-esteem point of view," adding that "it will also pave the way for an atmosphere of goodwill and oneness in the country."

"This matter of national interest is being obstructed by some fundamentalist elements and forces that play communal politics for selfish gains," Bhagwat said.

"The place of Janmabhoomi is yet to be allocated for the construction of the temple although all kinds of evidence have affirmed that there was a temple at that place. There is an obvious game-plan of a few elements to stall the judgment by presenting various newer interventions in the judicial process. It is in nobody's interest to test the patience of the society without any reason," the 'Sarsanghchalak' said.

Bhagwat further underscored that the initiatives being taken to enhance the armed forces and their morale is one of the factors for the country's rise in prominence in the world.

"Border Security and internal security of the country are the issues of foremost consideration for prosperity and development. In this regard efforts are being initiated and accelerated to enhance the morale of our armed and security forces, making them well-equipped and to provide them with the latest technologies. Along with this, it is essential to be more attentive in enhancing the basic amenities of armed and security forces and their families. There have been some laudable efforts in this regard by the government. This is one of the reasons that the prestige of Bharat is rising in the world.