RSS: Supremo Mohan Bhagwat's fake profiles used to vitiate atmosphere
What's the story
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) clarified that RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwat is not on Facebook or Twitter.
It claimed that attempts are being made to "vitiate the atmosphere" by posting sensitive and provocative messages through fake social media accounts.
This explanation came amid a complaint filed in a Jodhpur court dealing with SC/ST (prevention of atrocities) cases.
Complaint
Why was a complaint filed against Bhagwat?
Reportedly, a tweet attributed to Bhagwat claimed that "statues of all great personalities should be demolished."
This was posted by the handle @mohan_bhagwat_ on March 8. The fake account has now been suspended.
Subsequently, Rajasthan resident Narendra Kumar filed a complaint, asking the Jodhpur police commissioner to take action under provisions of the SC/ST Act.
Bhagwat's views
Meanwhile, why is Bhagwat not on social media?
Separately, unlike PM Modi and his ministers who swear by social media for connecting with netizens and marketing themselves, Bhagwat isn't a fan.
Though he admits that they are "useful instruments," he contends that it makes people "egoist and self-centric."
He added, "Social media means me, my, mine and I have to express my opinion on each and everything."