Swords and Knives for Self-Defense: RSS Leader’s Remarks Ignite Debate.

Post Pahalgam Repercussion

‘Hindus Must Keep Swords & Knives’: RSS Leader’s Call For Armed Defence Sparks  Controversy.

B Upendran | HENB | Kasaragod (Kerala) | May 01, 2025:: Senior RSS functionary Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat has sparked controversy with his remarks urging Hindus to keep swords and knives at home for self-defense, following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a public event in Varkady, Manjeshwar, Bhat claimed that had Hindus shown weapons during the Pahalgam attack, it might have deterred the assailants.

Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat’s speech was delivered in Varkady, a Gram Panchayat in Kerala’s Kasaragod district. Notably, Kerala is currently governed by a CPM-led LDF government and has experienced recurring Hindu-Muslim conflicts.

Bhat’s statements have ignited debate on social media and raised concerns in political circles, particularly over the implications of promoting weaponization among civilians in a multi-religious and sensitive socio-political context. His comments suggest that every Hindu household should keep a sword, and a six-inch knife does not require a legal license.

In contrast, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan addressed the Pahalgam terror attack with a markedly different tone, calling it an “inhuman act” and a “challenge to humanity.” Vijayan urged the central government to issue a “befitting reply” and stressed the importance of unity beyond caste or religion in the fight against terrorism. He also paid tribute to N Ramachandran, a Keralite who lost his life in the Pahalgam attack, and lauded the bravery of Ramachandran’s daughter, Arathi, for protecting her family during the incident.

The Pahalgam attack was a brutal incident where Jihadi terrorists targeted Hindus, allegedly based on their religious identity. The attackers reportedly checked the victims’ circumcision status, implying a religious motivation behind the violence. Such incidents highlight the complex security challenges in the region in a high communal backdrop.
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__Inputs from PTI.