RSS distances itself from Gadkari issue

Amid allegations of dubious funding for companies run by BJP chief Nitin Gadkari, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on Friday distanced itself from the controversy saying it has nothing to do with the controversy surrounding him.

Issuing a statement on the controversy, RSS said it is "saddened" by efforts to drag the organisation into the row.

"We are deeply saddened by the efforts to drag RSS' name into these allegations and cast aspersions on an organization of Sangh's stature," RSS Sarkaryavah Bhayyaji Joshi said in the statement.

His statement comes against the backdrop of media reports that RSS was trying to defend Gadkari who is seeking another term as BJP President.

"In the last few days, the media has been making allegations about certain irregularities in the corporate affairs of some political leaders. These allegations have caused a lot of consternation in the general public," he said.

He also said the Sangh also believes that any individual or organisation indulging in any illegal activity "must be subjected to impartial probe...all those found guilty be punished."

He said the allegations have been levelled by the media only and an authorised agency is yet to look into these. "That being the situation, it is unfortunate that the discourse on these allegations has turned more and more political."

The Sangh contended the fight against corruption should be waged at a non-political and non-partisan level.