The ‘Right’ Turn: ‘Robot’ Tax Demand To Ethical AI Pitch, RSS Navigates The Liberal Lane – News18

Last Updated:November 19, 2024, 08:23 IST

Often criticised by its opponents as “regressive” and “unscientific”, the RSS is strategically repositioning itself as a progressive and pro-science organisation

This week, while addressing a gathering of young researchers, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat reiterated the importance of science that aligns with ethical considerations. (Image: PTI/File)

From demanding an implementation of “robot tax” before the Union Budget for AI-induced retrenchments in companies through its affiliates to advocating for ethical use of AI with “conscience and compassion”, the RSS has come a long way. While safeguarding livelihoods remains central, it has signalled a nuanced openness to technology.

But, on its own terms.

Often criticised by its opponents as “regressive” and “unscientific”, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is strategically repositioning itself as a progressive and pro-science organisation. With its influence over its political front – the BJP – solidifying after the Haryana assembly elections, it is now focusing on redefining its intellectual identity placing a strong emphasis on science and innovation.

Head of the organisation, Mohan Bhagwat’s engagement with ISRO chief S Somanath and Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, along with a push for ethical AI, reflects a strategic shift to build its intellectual base around progressive, science-driven discourse and, thereby, countering the “Leftist” narrative.

In a calculated move to counter his detractors, Bhagwat shared the stage with Somanath and Satyarthi at an event held by an RSS-inspired organisation. His recent call for the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) also signals a deliberate effort to engage with contemporary scientific issues. The Vijaya Dashami celebrations, a key RSS event, also featured a former ISRO chief underscoring its growing engagement with India’s scientific community.

FROM SCRIPTS TO SCIENCE

The RSS, already deeply invested in building a cultural and intellectual ecosystem through literature and cinema, now appears to be expanding its vision. The focus is now shifting towards fostering science and research, a move aimed not only at shaping its own narrative but also at carving a space in the modern, knowledge-driven discourse.

This evolution shows its ambition to project itself as not just the ideological backbone of the right wing, but also as a credible force in shaping India’s scientific and ethical future.

The Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM), an RSS offshoot formed to celebrate and promote Bharat-centric research and education, hosted a three-day seminar to discuss science and education along with the knowledge of ancient India. A senior RSS functionary said the platform is for young researchers and academics, who believe in nationalist ideas.

The BSM has earlier worked in collaboration with NITI Aayog in organising webinars and discussions related to the National Education Policy (NEP) as well.

‘RIGHT’ ECOSYSTEM FOR ‘BHARATIYA VIGYAN’

According to senior RSS functionaries, the vision for a thriving “right ecosystem” in science (vigyan) hinges on a shift away from blindly following western scientific ideas and paradigms.

“The focus should be on developing a science that is deeply rooted in Bharat’s cultural context, values, and traditional knowledge systems aligning it more closely with our country’s unique socioeconomic realities. This perspective calls for a rethinking of how science is approached, particularly when it comes to fostering innovation that is not only Indian but also deeply relevant to the global needs and challenges,” said a senior RSS functionary, who is a member of the BSM.

This “Bharat-centric” science model, as mentioned by the Sangh, aims to adapt and innovate using India’s ancient knowledge and scientific achievements – ayurveda, yoga, and architecture, while also embracing modern scientific advancements, the senior functionary said.

This week, while addressing a gathering of young researchers, Bhagwat reiterated the importance of science that aligns with ethical considerations stressing on a responsible technological advancement. His views reflect an evolving understanding of science within the RSS.

While the organisation has long supported the advancement of Indian culture and tradition, its chief’s push for a more balanced and thoughtful use of science is evident in his call for the ethical use of emerging technologies like AI.