New Delhi/Kolkata, Dec 22: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that India is a “Hindu Rashtra” and does not require constitutional approval for it, asserting that it is a factual reality. He made the remarks while addressing a programme at Science City auditorium in Kolkata.
Expressing concern over the condition of minorities in Bangladesh amid recent unrest, Bhagwat said India needs to do something about the situation, though such actions may not always be made public. His remarks came in the backdrop of a recent incident in Bangladesh where a Hindu man was allegedly lynched, tied to a tree and set on fire by a mob.
The RSS chief also flagged the issue of infiltration from Bangladesh, saying it was impacting West Bengal, while adding that it was for the Central government to decide how to address the matter.
Responding to a query raised by West Bengal Assembly Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari regarding “increasing Islamic fundamentalism” in the state, Bhagwat said the government must decide who is allowed to enter India from Bangladesh and stressed the need for strict controls.
Highlighting the situation of Hindus in Bangladesh, Bhagwat said they are a minority in the neighbouring country and must remain united to ensure their safety. “All Hindus across the world, including us, have to provide help to them,” he said.
On West Bengal’s internal situation, Bhagwat asserted that unity among Hindus could bring change quickly, while reiterating that the RSS works for social change and not political change.
Referring to religious disputes, Bhagwat cited the Ayodhya case, stating that the Ram Mandir–Babri Masjid issue had been settled by the courts after prolonged hearings. Any attempt to revive the dispute, he said, was a political conspiracy aimed at reopening the conflict for electoral gains. (Agencies)
