RSS closes Shakhas in Pune; Swayamsevaks to help government in swine flu prevention drive

PUNE : While members help staff at screening centres, Sangh plans awareness campaign. Taking a cue from the schools and colleges in the city that have shut for a week to prevent the spread of swine flu, the city unit of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has decided to close its shakhas till August 17. The decision was taken at a meeting of RSS members, coordinated by Kailas Sontakke, the Pune Mahanagar secretary.

“We have about 200 shakhas in the city where many children, youngsters, working professionals and senior citizens come together everyday. Hence, we have decided to close the shakhas till August 17,” said Pranav Pawar, a member of the publicity wing of RSS, Pune.

“The RSS has also launched a drive in the city to create awareness about the disease. Our swayamsevaks would help the government authorities and people in tackling swine flu,” said Pawar.

A senior RSS worker Bapu Ghatpande said, “A team of 75 volunteers of RSS is working for at least six hours daily at the swine flu screening centers in the city, including Naidu hospital. Volunteers include medical professionals, youth, women and elderly.”

RSS worker Sachin Kulkarni said, “We want to reduce panic among citizens. Our volunteers are helping the hospital staff at screening centres to prepare case papers. Volunteers are also distributing the swine flu pamphlets to the citizens.”

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