GlobalPeace – Mohan Bhagwat Links Conflicts to Power Struggles Worldwide
GlobalPeace – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said that global conflicts continue to arise from self-interest and the pursuit of dominance, stressing that lasting peace can only emerge through unity, discipline and adherence to ethical principles.
Address in Nagpur Highlights Global Concerns
Speaking at a public gathering in Nagpur after laying the foundation stone for a new office of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bhagwat reflected on the long history of global tensions. He noted that for nearly two millennia, societies across the world have experimented with different approaches to resolve disputes, but these efforts have largely failed to produce enduring peace.
According to him, despite progress in many areas, issues such as religious intolerance, forced conversions, and a persistent sense of superiority or inferiority among communities continue to fuel divisions.
Emphasis on Shared Human Values
Bhagwat pointed to India’s philosophical traditions, which emphasize the interconnectedness of all beings. He said these teachings promote the idea that humanity is fundamentally one, and that this perspective can guide societies away from confrontation toward cooperation.
He added that even modern scientific thinking is gradually aligning with this view, suggesting that interconnected systems and mutual dependence are central to understanding the world.
Discipline and Dharma as Foundations for Peace
Reiterating his central argument, Bhagwat stated that conflicts often stem from unchecked personal ambition and the desire to dominate others. In his view, sustainable peace requires a collective commitment to discipline and dharma, which he described as a guiding framework for ethical living.
He underlined that dharma should not remain limited to religious texts or philosophical discussions, but must be reflected in everyday actions. According to him, true adherence involves consistent practice and, at times, personal sacrifice.
Challenges of Practicing Ethical Conduct
Bhagwat acknowledged that maintaining discipline and moral values is not always easy. He said that living by such principles demands effort and perseverance, especially in a world driven by competition and material goals.
He noted that societies often prioritize immediate gains over long-term harmony, which can weaken the foundation of ethical conduct. However, he stressed that without such discipline, achieving meaningful peace remains unlikely.
Contrasting Worldviews on Human Existence
Drawing a comparison between different global outlooks, Bhagwat said that while India’s worldview is rooted in the idea of collective humanity, many other perspectives emphasize competition and survival. He referred to the notion of “survival of the fittest” as a dominant framework in several parts of the world.
In contrast, he argued that a focus on cooperation and mutual respect is essential for addressing modern challenges and reducing conflict.
Call for Greater Harmony
Concluding his remarks, Bhagwat reiterated that the world stands at a point where it must choose between continued conflict and a shift toward harmony. He emphasized that unity and shared values can provide a path forward, but only if individuals and societies actively commit to them.
He called for a broader acceptance of these principles, suggesting that peace is not merely an ideal but a practical necessity in an increasingly interconnected world.