The term lynching is "alien to Bharat" and was a "western construct", Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday said, adding the usage of the term here was meant to defame India.
Addressing the Vijayadashmi function of the RSS at Reshimbagh ground in Maharashtra's Nagpur city, he said the word 'lynching' does not originate from Indian ethos but comes from a separate religious text, and such terms should not be imposed on Indians.
"Branding some incidents of social violence as 'lynching' are actually meant to defame our country, Hindu society and create fear among some communities. Lynching is alien to Bharat and actually has its references elsewhere," Bhagwat said.
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Bhagwat said that diversity is an "intrinsic strength of our nation."
"But diversity of caste, creed, language and region are being used by vested interests to separate one from another, turning them to differences; imposing fabricated identities on manufactured separations," he said.
"It is essential to be alert in identifying plots of vested interest and counter them on intellectual and social planes... Alertness is a constant necessity," he added.
Bhagwat stated that the society must act by "remaining within the limits of Constitution".
"Whatever the difference of opinion be, howsoever provocative actions might have taken place, still the society must act by remaining within the limits of Constitution, reposing faith in the police and judicial system of the country," he said.
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He stated that different sections of the society should strive to increase goodwill, dialogues and cooperation among themselves.
"In today's context, it is absolutely important to work for the goodwill, harmony and cooperation among all sections of society. The Sangh Swayamsevaks have been making efforts to enhance this type of dialogues and cooperation," he said.
He also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the government's move to abrogate Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, but said some vested interests do not want the country to be strong and vibrant.
On concerns over the economic sector, he said the slowing down of world economy has left its impact everywhere.
"The government has taken initiatives to tide over the situation in the last one-and-a-half months. Our society is entrepreneurial and will overcome these challenges," he added.
In the morning, Bhagwat performed 'shastra puja' at the Sangh's annual Vijayadashmi event.
(With inputs from agencies)
