Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), told an audience in Bhopal that strengthening communication within families is key to preventing what he described as “Love Jihad”. Speaking at the Stree Shakti Samvad event at Shivneri Bhavan, he argued that regular conversations at home help inculcate respect for religion, culture and tradition and reduce the risk of young people being misled.
Love Jihad in India
Bhagwat outlined three practical steps to tackle the problem. First, he urged parents and family members to maintain ongoing, open dialogue with their children so that warning signs can be recognised early. Second, he called for creating a sense of vigilance and self-defence among girls, including practical training to protect themselves. Third, he demanded effective legal action against those who exploit relationships to commit criminal acts.
Addressing the role of social organisations, Bhagwat said they must stay alert and mobilise collective resistance when necessary. He emphasised that any long-term solution requires both societal awareness and credible enforcement measures.
On the subject of women’s roles, Bhagwat argued that women are central to preserving religion and culture. He said the notion that women should be confined to the home for their safety is outmoded and that men and women must jointly advance family and social life. He called for expanding opportunities for women and deepening their ideological awareness, noting that women are already making strides across multiple sectors but that further progress is needed.
Bhagwat also drew contrasts between Western social patterns and Indian tradition, urging a careful appraisal of which values are imparted to children. He described certain forms of Westernisation as a ‘‘blind race’’ and warned against uncritically accepting external influences without understanding indigenous values.
Throughout his remarks he invoked historical examples of female courage and leadership, such as Rani Lakshmibai, to argue that Indian traditions have long celebrated women’s strength. He concluded that societies that respect and protect women are inherently healthier, and that confronting what he called cultural incursions requires a deep understanding of national religion, values and traditions.
Bhagwat’s comments are likely to resonate with constituencies focused on cultural preservation and women’s empowerment, while also attracting criticism from those who view the term “Love Jihad” as controversial and potentially polarising. The speech underlines a continuing debate in India about how to balance individual freedoms, social cohesion and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
As the conversation continues, the three pillars Bhagwat set out — family dialogue, practical empowerment for girls, and robust legal action — are likely to shape responses among community leaders and policymakers who seek practical steps to reduce social tension while safeguarding rights.
Key Takeaways:
- RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat told a Bhopal audience that stronger family dialogue can help curb Love Jihad in India.
- He recommended three measures: continuous family conversation, empowering girls with vigilance and self-defence, and firm action against offenders.
- Bhagwat also stressed women’s empowerment and warned against uncritical adoption of Western values.
