Premji clarifies on attending RSS body event

Wipro Enterprises Limited Chairman Azim Premji, who attended an event organised by a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) body near Delhi on Sunday, said his presence did not mean that he endorsed the views of the forum.

Addressing a session where RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was present, Premji said some people had expressed apprehension that attending the event might appear to be endorsing the "ideology" of the Sangh.

Rejecting such speculation, the information technology czar said he believed that merely speaking at a particular forum did not in any way mean that one endorsed all or any of the views that were expressed in that forum.

Addressing various delegates at the event organised by Rashtriya Sewa Bharati, a Sangh body that supports various organisations in the field of social work, he said he respected the work they did, which was the reason for his presence.

Corporate heavyweights including GMR Group Chairman G M Rao and Essel Group Chairman Subhash Chandra were among the high profile guests at the event.

Premji said if there is divergence or difference of views, they could be resolved through discussion.

To become a truly great country, work is needed on several fronts like elimination of corruption, safety for women, children and disadvantaged sections and support for the poverty stricken, he stressed.

Premji underlined the importance of education especially on primary and secondary education, saying the government has to play a key role in this area and also advocated public investment in this field. The Private sector cannot substitute the role of the government in primary education, he said. Addressing the gathering, G M Rao said he believed that NGOs and philanthropists are social engines for the country.

He spoke about the social service ventures of the GMR Group and also lauded Rashtriya Sewa Bharati for its efforts.