In October 2019, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat launched a book titled ‘The RSS Roadmaps for the 21st century’, which was written by ABVP’s Sunil Ambekar (not to be confused with the surname, Ambedkar). The book is significant and the first of its kind.
In the chapter ‘Family and Modern Relationships’, Ambekar quotes RSS spokesperson Dattatreya Hosabale as saying: “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.” However, Hosabale went on to say: “gay marriages should not be institutionalised for it will institutionalise homosexuality. So it should be prohibited.” (Source: Business Standard)
On January 9, Mohan Bhagwat made a statement on the heels of the Supreme Court’s transfer of all petitions on marriage equality to itself. He echoed the sentiments of the book and said that LGBTQ people must have their own space and must feel part of society. The RSS also frowns upon live-in relationships, so one wonders if this is a nod to marriage equality! Bhagwat gave the example of Jarasandh’s generals, Hans and Dimbaka, who adored each other so much that Hans killed himself when he heard a rumor of Dimbaka’s death. Bhagwat said that this speaks to their queer intimacy. As a vet, he also said that he had observed homosexuality among animals. (Source: The Quint)
He also added that the Sangh shakas are open to becoming common spaces for women and men, in response to criticism about women not being allowed here. In the past, the Sangh has also been outspoken about the participation of kinnars in the Kumbh Mela, citing the visibility of transgender characters in the Ramayana. (Source: The Tribune)
While this might feel inclusive, one wonders why sexuality is considered a personal issue to be relegated to private spaces. Why can sexuality not become a part of public discourse? Our spaces – especially public and urban – are designed and built in ways that are exclusive and alienating of queer aspirations. We dream to live our lives free of public jeering and judgment. Will gender & sexuality education finally be part of our mainstream schooling curriculum? Will NCERT reinstate the Transgender Inclusion Guide (Link) into which members of the community had put in much labour and thought to design schools as safer spaces for genderqueer children?
Moreover, the queer movement is nothing without its Dalit-Bahujan voices, who have carved out these spaces for our communities in a hostile world, especially in dire times such as during the pandemic lockdowns. What does RSS’ stand mean for affirmative actions like the horizontal reservation? (Link)
One wonders what changes 2023 will bring for the queer community in India and whether they will be truly inclusive or divisive along the lines of caste, gender binary et al.
