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Opposing the Demand for Bharat Ratna for Savarkar

Published July 10, 2026 at 10:35 AM UTC

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The demand for conferring the Bharat Ratna on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar has been met with significant opposition, particularly from political figures and organizations that question his role in India's history. Critics point to Savarkar's controversial actions during the freedom struggle, including his alleged involvement in the conspiracy leading to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. The J.L. Kapur Commission report on Gandhi's assassination identified Savarkar as a conspirator, casting a shadow over his legacy. Given these allegations, many argue that awarding the Bharat Ratna to Savarkar would be inappropriate and could tarnish the sanctity of the award. Congress leader Bhai Jagtap emphasized that the Bharat Ratna is the nation's highest honor, granted to those who have made significant contributions to the freedom struggle and nation-building. He questioned the appropriateness of honoring an individual with such a contested legacy, suggesting that it could set a concerning precedent. Furthermore, the RSS chief's remarks advocating for Savarkar's Bharat Ratna have been criticized by leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi, who suggested that the BJP might even consider awarding the honor to Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, Nathuram Godse. This comparison underscores the deep divisions and sensitivities surrounding the issue. Therefore, it is crucial to approach the matter with caution, ensuring that the integrity of national honors is maintained and that they are conferred upon individuals whose contributions are universally acknowledged and uncontroversial.