This refers to the report, “Soul of India in pluralism, tolerance: Pranab” (June 8). The hullabaloo that was unleashed by Congress bigots Anand Sharma and Randeep Surjewala following the announcement by former President Pranab Mukherjee to participate in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) annual event in Nagpur, at the invitation of the RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, appeared a storm in a tea cup. Mukherjee was dignified when he started his visit with the memorial of the RSS founder, with KB Hedgewar paying him respect as “a great son of Mother India.” Both leaders, Bhagwat, speaking first, and then Mukherjee, emphasised on “unity in diversity” as the key element in forging communal harmony and understanding in the country. While the former President also spoke against violence in all forms to set an example for peace, harmony and happiness, Bhagwat stated that the Sangh wanted to “unite the entire society — any one born in India is an Indian.”
Those who listened to both leaders at the RSS event must have been struck by the similarity of their patriotic and progressive views. But, unfortunately, we have a number of malicious, anti-national elements who are hell-bent upon ridiculing Bhagwat's remarks. No doubt, they are not interested in communal harmony and tranquility.