Published 17:36 IST, September 21st 2019
RSS backs homosexual and transgender rights: Upcoming book
ANI reported that a book, 'The RSS Roadmaps for the 21st century', to be released by Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat reveals that RSS backs transgender rights.
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The Rashtriya Sawayamsevak Sangh backs homosexual and transgender rights, reported news agency ANI on Saturday. The news agency has said that a new book scheduled to be released by the Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat on October 1 titled, 'The RSS Roadmaps for the 21st century' reveals that the RSS backs transgender rights. The book has been written by Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad's national organising secretary Sunil Ambekar, as per ANI. Reports also said that the book holds significance as it is the first such publication expressing RSS's views on contemporary issues. Earlier, in 2018, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat made a shift from Sangh’s previous stance on transgenders and said, “Everyone is a part of the society”, adding, “Their place should be made in our society. They should be accepted as they are.”
Detailing further, the report by the news agency suggests that in the chapter 'Family and Emerging Modern Relationships' the views of RSS on homosexuality have been written. The book's author Ambekar quotes RSS 'sah sarkarvyah' Dattatreya Hosabale: "I don't think homosexuality should be considered a criminal offence as long as it doesn't affect the lives of others in society. Sexual preferences are private and personal." The author mentions that Hosabale has further clarified that "gay marriages should not be institutionalised for it will institutionalise homosexuality. So it should be prohibited."
The report by ANI also highlights Ambekar saying that inclusion is a key concern. The report quoted Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat who has been quoted in the book, where he said: "Society is changing and we need to accommodate everyone so they do not feel isolated." On transgender rights, the author pointed toward their existence even during the Ramayana era. He goes on to state that for the first time 'kinnar (eunuch) akhara' was allowed a ceremonial procession in Kumbh 2019.
The book also points out the importance of 'fully functional Indian families', as per report. The Sangh in the book has been said to oppose live-in relationships. The book reportedly says that the RSS feels such a relation is not suitable for Indian society. "Evidence shows that live-in relationships do not culminate in marriage but lead to separation with physical and psychological ramifications. In conclusion, they are a negative role model for society," it says. The author goes on to point out that this type of arrangement is understandable in countries where strong family system is absent, as per the ANI report.
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17:01 IST, September 21st 2019