Archive · 5 Nov 2025
RSS@100 Discussion in Delhi Sparks Debate on Caste System
Some people who work with a group called the RSS gathered in New Delhi to talk about their organization's upcoming 100th anniversary.
They also talked about how they want to change India over the next 25 years.
But a big part of the talk became about the caste system, which is a way people in India have been divided for a long time.
Some people think caste is a problem that causes unfairness, while others, like some leaders of the RSS, believe it's more of a 'mental block' and that untouchability is wrong.
They said the RSS wants everyone to have equal access to things like water and temples.
However, others in the audience felt that as long as caste exists, discrimination will continue, and questioned if reservations should still exist if caste is to be eliminated.
An RSS@100 discussion hosted by the India Foundation in New Delhi featured speakers Prafulla Ketkar, Meenakshi Jain, and J Nandakumar.
The discussion focused on the upcoming centenary of the RSS and its vision for systemic change in India over the next 25 years.
A significant portion of the discussion turned into a debate about the caste system and its implications for Hindu society.
Speakers addressed the RSS's stance, with Prafulla Ketkar stating that untouchability is a sin and discrimination in access to basic amenities is unacceptable.
The debate included differing views on whether the caste system is a 'mental block' or inherently discriminatory, with discussions on caste-based reservations and surveys.
- Who
- Speakers and audience at an RSS@100 discussion hosted by the India Foundation.
- What
- A discussion on the RSS's upcoming centenary, which evolved into a debate on the caste system and the RSS's stance on it.
- When
- Unspecified, but in the context of the upcoming RSS centenary.
- Where
- India Habitat Centre, New Delhi
- Why
- To discuss the RSS's upcoming centenary and its vision for India's future, which led to a debate on caste.
- Event
- RSS@100 discussion
- Host
- India Foundation
- Location
- India Habitat Centre, New Delhi
- Key Speakers
- Prafulla Ketkar, Meenakshi Jain, J Nandakumar
- Main Topic of Debate
- Caste System and its role in Hindu society