Experts raise concerns over rapid spread of BJP-led Hindutva politics in Nepal

Published On: July 27, 2023 07:45 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, July 27: Experts have raised serious concerns over the increasing influence of Hindutva politics in Nepali society and its potential threat to communal harmony among different religious groups in the country.

Addressing a discussion program titled 'Spread of Hindutva Politics and Indian-Nepali Media' organized by Free Press Nepal in the capital, they also urged the media and the academic community to be vigilant about the growing influence of Hindutva politics in Nepal and counter its impacts effectively.

Yubaraj Ghimire, editor of Deshsanchar.com, provided insights into the development of Hindutva politics in India, where it emerged as a political use of Hindu religion, faith, and devotion. He highlighted that Hindutva politics gained momentum in India due to the perceived lack of proper secularism under the leadership of the Indian National Congress.

Ghimire, who also worked as a journalist in India for a long time, emphasized the importance for Nepal to learn from India's experience with secularism to avoid repeating similar weaknesses. He mentioned that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been active in Nepal since 1952, operating outside India under the name 'Hindu Swayamsevak Sangathan (HSS).'

Kanak Mani Dixit, founding editor of Himal South Asian, warned that the influence of Hindutva politics in Nepal is a clear and present danger for the country. He noted that it is continuing to interfere with the Indian establishment's intervention in Nepali affairs, particularly concerning policy decisions on water resources and air traffic.

During the discussion, Ghimire highlighted instances where Nepali leaders have shown apparent welcome to representatives of the RSS. He questioned why certain political figures visited the offices of specific parties during state visits to India, hinting at potential RSS influence.

Dixit also raised concerns about the influence of Hinduism in Nepali journalism, citing examples of how certain information might be neglected or overlooked. He highlighted a case where the wife of Foreign Minister NP Saud holds a significant position in the Vishwa Hindu Federation of Nepal, yet there was little media coverage about it.