Ambekar framed the RSS’s approach to caste through social harmony rather than structural confrontation (file photo)

New Delhi: Drawing a line between politics over welfare and caste data, RSS national publicity chief Sunil Ambekar said the Sangh supports the caste census but opposes its use to “divide the society”, even as he outlined the organisation’s position on key debates ranging from caste reforms and women’s participation to equation with the BJP.In a conversation with TOI, Ambekar framed the RSS’s approach towards caste as one through social harmony rather than structural confrontation. He said, “If mutual affection increases and discrimination ends, even big issues can be resolved. Without harmony, even small issues become big fights.”He said access to temples, cremation grounds, water sources and public places should be open to all, adding that RSS volunteers are engaged at the local level to address such concerns. Pointing to institutions such as Vidya Bharati, Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Ekal Vidyalaya and Seva Bharati as part of a broader outreach network, he said leadership is increasingly emerging from marginalized communities, including women.On women’s participation, Ambekar defended the parallel structure of the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, saying that it reflected the RSS shakha model. At the same time, they acknowledged the need to expand the role of women, noting that participation in decision-making and outreach is increasing through a coordination mechanism called “women’s relations.” He also flagged off the centenary theme of “Kutumba Prabodhan”, which aims to encourage families to support women’s participation in public life.On caste census, he reiterated that RSS supports it for welfare, but opposes political misuse. “Democracy requires representation, but politics should not pit one community against another,” he said, arguing that social unity could counter divisive mobilization. Despite perceptions of polarization, he said, “on the ground we see unity”, citing gatherings such as the Kumbh and Ram Mandir Abhishek.Addressing the RSS-BJP equation, Ambekar said the Sangh remains a social organization focused on “man-building”, with volunteers working in all fields, including politics. He stressed that the organizations work independently, while describing India’s structure as “society-centric” in contrast to the Western state-centric model. He said that while political parties work within electoral cycles, the RSS works on a long civilizational horizon through “Lokmat Jagran”.On criticism linking Hindu nationalism to democratic backsliding, Ambekar rejected this premise, describing Hindu culture as “united” and rooted in ideas such as “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. He argued that India’s civilizational ethos enables co-existence and strengthens democracy in a diverse society.On concerns over discrimination against people from the North-East, he said the term “racial discrimination” is incorrect, blaming historical distortions and limited dialogue for past tensions. He said the exchange programs have reduced misunderstandings and called for handling such issues sensitively.On global conflicts, Ambekar said India should be guided by peace and principles, with the government taking decisions based on strategic assessment.