Kiren Rijiju claims RSS fighting ‘reign of terror’ in Kerala

Minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju launched a scathing attack on the Left parties for inflicting violence on RSS and BJP workers in Kerala, saying people across the country were not aware of the “atrocities” as the issue was not highlighted properly at the national level.

Speaking at an event in the capital on Saturday, the Union minister said BJP and RSS workers need to be praised for fighting the “rein of terror in Kerala without picking up arms” specially at a time some youth in the state have been drawn towards “political fundamentalists,’’ in an apparent reference to ISIS.

“The central leaders of Left are at the forefront of discussing human rights, ideals and values in democratic society. They keep talking about following the rule of law. But when we see the reality in Kerala, it is tragic. The atrocities committed by the Left cadre in Kerala deserve national attention, national debate. But it has never gained the kind of space it should have in our national media, electronic of print. That is why, I think, many people in our country do not know what is going on in Kerala,” Mr Rijiju added.

Without naming ISIS, the minister said individuals were attracted to “political fundamentalism” not due to economic reasons but “they were ideologically-driven” and described the trend as “sad”. He claimed the reports of RSS-BJP workers facing “brutality” at the hands of a “particular political group” are often heard. Yet, the functionaries, he added, stand tall in adverse situations.

“To save themselves, to secure positions, people have gone to extreme methods, but I compliment, rather I should salute, especially the RSS workers and BJP workers, they are fighting without resorting to arms. This is really unique,” Mr Rijiju said.