RSS meet begins, expansion plans on agenda

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Thursday began its annual meeting here to chalk out plans for expanding its activities across India.

Clarifying that the three-day meeting had no political agenda and was not connected to the general elections, RSS publicity head Manamohan Vaidya told reporters that the meeting would evaluate its programmes and performance in diverse social domains.

"No political decision will be taken at the meeting, which is being held to discuss and evaluate our work. The top brass will review our various activities state-wise and discuss issues of national importance," Vaidya said.

He said the RSS was in favour of increasing participation by the electorate in the parliamentary elections.

Vaidya said RSS cadres would work to generate awareness among the people to enroll as voters and exercise their franchise as a democratic right.

The meeting of the Sangh's highest body for policy formulation and decision-making - the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) is being held in the city after 12 years.

Besides the Sangh's Sarsanghchalak (chief) Mohan Bhagwat and sarkaryavah (general secretary) Suresh Joshi and a dozen office bearers, about 1,400 representatives of the outfit from across the country are taking part in the meeting.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Rajnath Singh will participate in the Sangh's national and provincial meeting Friday.

Leaders from Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, tribal welfare organisation Vanavasi Kalyan Ashram, student organisation Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, workers' union Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and political party Bharatiya Janata Paksha are also attending the conference.