Railways Event, RSS Song, and a Political Firestorm in Kerala
A recent Southern Railway event in Kerala has ignited a fierce political debate, with allegations of “saffronization” and communal polarization taking center stage. The controversy revolves around the singing of a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-associated song at a government function, reigniting concerns about ideological influences in public institutions.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The uproar began during a “Swachhata Hi Seva” (Cleanliness is Service) event at Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station on September 30. A viral video showed attendees singing “Swayamsevak Ha, Swayamsevak Ha”—a song closely tied to the RSS. Opposition parties, including the CPI(M) and Congress, accused the Railways of promoting a “saffron agenda,” while the ruling LDF condemned the incident as a breach of secular principles.
Political Backlash: Left vs BJP–RSS
- CPI(M) & Congress: State CPI(M) secretary M.V. Govindan called it a “systematic effort to communalize public spaces,” while Congress leader V.D. Satheesan questioned the neutrality of public institutions.
- BJP’s Defense: BJP state chief K. Surendran dismissed the criticism, labeling the song patriotic and accusing the Left of “manufacturing outrage.”
Railways’ Stand: Neutral or Complicit?
The Southern Railway clarified that the song was sung by participants without official endorsement, calling the event “apolitical.” Critics, however, argue that such incidents align with broader allegations of BJP-led “saffronization” of public sectors.
Kerala’s Ideological Battlefield
Kerala’s strong secular-communist traditions clash with the BJP’s growing presence, making such controversies potential flashpoints ahead of the 2024 elections. Analysts warn of deepening polarization as parties weaponize cultural symbolism.
What’s Next?
With neither side retreating, this row may fuel further political clashes in Kerala. Will it fade or escalate? The answer lies in how parties leverage it in upcoming elections.
