‘Nothing To Learn…’: Digvijaya Singh Backtracks After Controversy Over RSS-BJP Remarks

Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, who recently found himself at the centre of a political storm after appearing to praise the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP, has now clarified his position, asserting that there is “nothing to learn” from the supporters of Nathuram Godse. At the same time, he reiterated that strengthening organisational structures is essential for any political party.

Singh’s earlier comments had sparked sharp reactions across the political spectrum, prompting him to repeatedly underline that he remains firmly opposed to the ideology of the RSS. According to him, his remarks were misinterpreted, as his intent was limited to acknowledging the organisational discipline of the Sangh, not endorsing its beliefs.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, the veteran leader said, “I have already said everything I needed to say. One thing must be understood clearly — I have spent 50 years in the Congress party and have consistently fought communal forces in the Assembly, Parliament and within the organisation. I have always opposed the ideology of the BJP and the RSS, and I will continue to do so.”

When questioned specifically about whether the Congress could learn anything from the discipline often associated with the RSS, the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister responded sharply, saying the Congress “does not need to learn anything from killers like Nathuram Godse.” However, he added that institutional strengthening is a necessity for every organisation, including his own party.

Singh’s clarification came amid visible differences of opinion within the Congress over his initial remarks. Several party leaders distanced themselves from his comments, reflecting an internal debate on how the party should respond to comparisons with the RSS. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera echoed a strong rebuttal, linking the RSS to Godse and stating, “There is nothing to learn from the RSS. What can an organisation associated with Godse teach a party founded by Mahatma Gandhi?”

In contrast, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor offered a more nuanced response, backing the broader point about discipline and organisational strength. While not directly endorsing Singh’s comments, Tharoor said the Congress has its own long legacy to draw lessons from.

“We have a 140-year-old history, and there is a great deal we can learn from it,” Tharoor said. “We can also learn from ourselves. Discipline is crucial for any political party. I, too, want our organisation to become stronger. There should be discipline within the party. Digvijaya Singh can speak for his own views.”

How the Controversy Began

The controversy erupted on Saturday when Digvijaya Singh shared a photograph from 1995 showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi seated on the ground near then BJP president L.K. Advani. Along with the image, Singh remarked that the Congress could take note of how the RSS and BJP create pathways for grassroots workers to rise to senior leadership positions.

The post quickly drew attention, as the Congress has consistently been a vocal critic of both the BJP and the RSS. Singh’s comments therefore appeared to diverge from the party’s established stance, giving the BJP an opportunity to highlight what it described as internal dissent within the Congress.

Following the backlash, Singh clarified once again that his opposition to the RSS remains unwavering. Nevertheless, the episode has triggered fresh discussion within the Congress at a time when the party is re-evaluating its organisational structure, leadership style and future political strategy.