RSS Chief Declares India as a Hindu Nation Without Constitutional Approval
In a recent statement, Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the RSS, proclaimed that India is fundamentally a Hindu nation, asserting that no constitutional approval is required for this identity. He emphasized the importance of celebrating cultural heritage and honoring ancestors as key to maintaining this identity. Bhagwat also addressed misconceptions about the RSS being anti-Muslim, inviting scrutiny of the organization's transparency. His remarks have sparked discussions about India's cultural and national identity, raising questions about the implications of such declarations in a diverse society.
| Dec 22, 2025, 10:27 IST
RSS Leader's Bold Statement on India's Identity
Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), asserted on Sunday that India is inherently a Hindu nation, claiming that no constitutional endorsement is necessary as it is a "truth." He emphasized that as long as the populace continues to celebrate the nation's cultural heritage and honor their ancestors, India will remain a Hindu nation.
During a conference in Kolkata, Bhagwat stated, "The sun rises in the east; we do not know how long this has been happening. So, do we need constitutional approval for that too? Bharat is a Hindu nation. Anyone who considers India their motherland appreciates Indian culture, and as long as there is even one person alive on Indian soil who believes in and cherishes the glory of Indian ancestors, India is a Hindu nation."
He further mentioned that the RSS, which firmly believes in the ideology of Hindutva, is indifferent to whether Parliament decides to amend laws to declare India a Hindu nation.
He added, "If Parliament ever decides to amend the Constitution and add that term, it is fine whether they do it or not. That term does not matter to us because we are Hindus, and our nation is a Hindu nation. That is the truth. The caste system based on birth is not the identity of Hindutva."
Addressing minority issues, he emphasized that the RSS is not an organization that harbors anti-Muslim sentiments. He insisted that the RSS has always operated transparently, inviting anyone with doubts to observe for themselves.
Bhagwat concluded, "If there is a perception that we are anti-Muslim, as I mentioned, the work of the RSS is transparent. You can come and see for yourself, and if you witness anything, you can form your opinion. If you see nothing, you can change your opinion. (There is) much to understand about the RSS, but if you do not wish to understand, no one can change your mind."