RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat: Madurai Deepam Row Can Be Resolved By 'Hindu Strength'

In a significant statement on the ongoing Madurai Deepam row, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has asserted that the issue 'can be resolved in Tamil Nadu itself on the basis of Hindu strength'. Reacting to the controversy surrounding the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at Thiruparankundram, Bhagwat stated that the 'awakening of Hindus in Tamil Nadu is enough to bring about the desired result'. The comments come amidst a political firestorm where the ruling DMK and its allies have moved an impeachment motion against Madras High Court Justice G.R. Swaminathan over his order permitting the lamp lighting. India Today's Pramod Madhav reports that Bhagwat also noted that if escalation is needed, Hindu organizations will inform them. The dispute involves a temple and a Dargah in close proximity, with the state government citing law and order concerns for not implementing the court's order.