India’s Hindu Nationalist Project: A Century of Influence and a Looming Transformation
Over 1.4 billion people – a fifth of the global population – live under a government increasingly shaped by the ideology of Hindutva, a Hindu nationalist philosophy. This isn’t a sudden shift, but the culmination of a century-long project spearheaded by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a far-right organization whose members now include Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Understanding the RSS’s historical trajectory and current influence is crucial to grasping the future of the world’s largest democracy, and the potential ripple effects across South Asia.
The RSS: From Cultural Revival to Political Power
Founded in 1925, the RSS initially presented itself as a cultural organization aiming to unite the Hindu community. However, its core tenet – that India’s cultural identity is fundamentally Hindu – quickly evolved into a political project. Early leaders, influenced by Italian Fascism and German Nazism (as documented by scholars like Christophe Jaffrelot), envisioned a nation where religious minorities would be relegated to a secondary status. For decades, the RSS operated largely on the fringes, building a network of affiliated organizations – known as the Sangh Parivar – focused on education, labor, and social service.
The Rise of Hindutva Politics
The demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992, a controversial mosque in Ayodhya, marked a turning point. This event, orchestrated by RSS-affiliated groups, ignited communal violence and propelled Hindutva politics into the mainstream. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the RSS’s political arm, capitalized on this momentum, gradually gaining power through a combination of nationalist rhetoric and appeals to Hindu identity. Narendra Modi’s election in 2014, and his subsequent landslide victory in 2019, cemented the RSS’s influence at the highest levels of government.
Current Policies and Their Impact
Under Modi’s leadership, policies reflecting the RSS’s ideology have become increasingly prevalent. These include:
- Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA): This law offers a path to Indian citizenship for religious minorities fleeing persecution from neighboring countries – excluding Muslims.
- National Register of Citizens (NRC): A proposed nationwide register aimed at identifying illegal immigrants, raising fears of discrimination against Muslims who may lack the necessary documentation.
- Restrictions on Religious Conversion: Several states have enacted laws restricting religious conversions, often targeting interfaith marriages.
- Promotion of Hindu Culture: Increased emphasis on Hindu traditions and symbols in education and public life.
These policies, critics argue, are eroding India’s secular foundations and fostering an environment of intolerance and discrimination. Human Rights Watch has documented a rise in violence against Muslims and other minorities since 2014. (https://www.hrw.org/asia/india)
Future Trends: A More Assertive India?
The RSS’s long-term vision extends beyond domestic policy. It seeks to transform India into a global power rooted in its Hindu heritage. Several trends suggest this ambition will intensify in the coming years:
Geopolitical Implications
A more assertive India, driven by Hindutva ideology, could reshape regional alliances and exacerbate existing tensions. The RSS views Pakistan as a historical adversary and advocates for a stronger stance against China. This could lead to increased military spending, a more confrontational foreign policy, and a realignment of India’s relationships with other nations. The focus on a “Hindu Rashtra” (Hindu nation) may also influence India’s approach to diaspora politics, potentially impacting its relations with countries having significant Indian Muslim populations.
Technological Control and Surveillance
The RSS is increasingly leveraging technology to promote its ideology and monitor dissent. The proliferation of fake news and hate speech on social media, often amplified by RSS-affiliated accounts, poses a significant threat to social cohesion. The government’s expanding surveillance capabilities, coupled with restrictions on internet freedom, raise concerns about the erosion of civil liberties. Expect to see further investment in AI and data analytics to identify and suppress opposition.
The Future of Indian Secularism
The most profound impact of the RSS’s project may be the gradual dismantling of India’s secular constitution. While outright constitutional changes are unlikely in the short term, the erosion of secular institutions and the promotion of Hindu majoritarianism could fundamentally alter the character of the Indian state. This could lead to increased social polarization, marginalization of minorities, and a decline in democratic values. The long-term consequences for India’s economic growth and global standing are uncertain.
The RSS’s century-long journey from a fringe organization to a powerful force shaping India’s destiny is a stark reminder of the enduring power of ideology. As India navigates a complex geopolitical landscape and grapples with its own internal contradictions, understanding the RSS’s vision and its impact will be critical for anyone seeking to comprehend the future of this vital nation. What role will India play on the world stage as its identity continues to evolve? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
