Hindu society weakened by internal divisions, not Muslims, Christians: Ananth Kumar Hegde

Bhatkal: Former Union Minister Ananth Kumar Hegde said that the biggest threat to Hindu society today comes from internal divisions, particularly the caste system, rather than from other religious communities.

Speaking at the Hindu Sangam conference organised in the town, Hegde criticised the caste system and said it has weakened the unity of the community.

He said that while leaders speak about unity on public platforms, caste-based thinking returns as soon as people leave such gatherings. According to him, this mindset has become one of the most harmful ideas affecting society.

Hegde said the setbacks faced by Hindu society were largely due to internal betrayal rather than external forces. “Neither Muslims nor Christians could have defeated us. Throughout history, it is our own people who have betrayed us,” he said. Referring to historical examples, he said Kittur Rani Chennamma was not defeated by the British but by Mallappa Shetty, and that internal divisions played a role in weakening society.

He also claimed that no Hindu scriptures mention the caste system and compared it to dirt that gradually enters flowing water. Over time, he said, caste divisions became embedded in society and removing them is the responsibility of everyone.

Hegde also expressed concern over the increasing trend of organising caste-based gatherings, saying such events harm social unity.

Referring to the RSS completing 100 years, he said India is emerging as a global leader. He added that practices like yoga and Ayurveda, once overlooked by other countries, are now being recognised worldwide, and called upon people to rise above caste divisions to strengthen society.

Sri Mohandas Paramahamsa Swamiji of Sridham, Manila in Bantwal, presided over the event. Hindu Sangam Committee president Sridhar Naik and Nagayakshe Dharmadarshi Ramdas Prabhu were among those present. Several seers and activists also attended the programme.