Tariffs slapped out of fear India is emerging stronger, says Bhagwat

Nagpur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said tariffs were imposed on India out of fear that the country would emerge stronger. "Such steps are the result of a self-centred approach," he said without naming any country.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 7th foundation day of Brahma Kumaris Vishwa Shanti Sarovar at Jamtha, Nagpur, Bhagwat emphasized that selfish approach is the root cause of global conflicts.

US President Donald Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on India, including a 25% punitive duty for buying Russian oil. India has termed the tariffs "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable".

"People in the world are afraid of what might happen to them if India grows stronger. That's why tariffs have been imposed on Indian goods. But we have done nothing. When you are seven seas away and there is no connection, why the fear?" he asked.

"If we start considering everyone as one, don't harbour enmity towards anyone, show compassion and overcome fear, we will have no enemies," he said. Bhagwat said people and countries will continue to face problems unless they understand their real self. If people change their perspective from "me" to "us", all issues will be resolved. India has the capability to solve the world's problems and show the right path to the world, he added.

"The world today is looking for solutions, as it has been unable to find a way forward due to its incomplete vision. It is impossible for them to find the way because of their ‘only me' approach," he said," Bhagwat said.

Earlier, a special letter was presented to Bhagwat on his 75th birthday, followed by an aarti with 75 lamps. Attendees included Prajapita Brahmakumari Ishwariya Vishwavidyalaya's additional general secretary Mrutyunjay Bhai, joint chief administrator Santosh Didi, life management expert BK Usha Didi, national coordinator of women's wing BK Sharda Didi, RSS metropolitan sanghchalak Rajesh Loya, and others.

Bhagwat also spoke about the strong sense of unity among Indians. "As a nation, India has a distinct identity. The country wants to work on connecting the entire world. Indians are content even in the face of adversities. People in many countries cannot sleep without sleeping pills despite earning millions. In contrast, a simple handcart-puller in India sleeps peacefully in tree shade under scorching sun."

Santosh Didi said, "India is already Vishwaguru. India has been great historically and is great now too. India has set up an ideal before the entire world. There is no doubt that Ram Rajya will be established once again."