Intensify 'ghar wapsi' efforts, says RSS chief

RSS Chief Calls for Intensified Religious Reconversion Efforts

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has renewed calls for accelerating "ghar wapsi," or homecoming to Hinduism, during recent public addresses in Lucknow. Speaking at a social harmony meeting and a function at Saraswati Shishu Mandir, Bhagwat emphasized that efforts for religious reconversion should be strengthened while ensuring those who return to the Hindu fold receive proper support and care from the community. The remarks underscore the organization's continued focus on consolidating Hindu society through various social and demographic initiatives. Bhagwat's statements come amid broader discussions about religious conversions and the need for greater internal cohesion within Hindu communities across the country.[1][4][5]

Defining Ghar Wapsi: A Gradual Process of Understanding

The concept of "ghar wapsi" refers to the voluntary reconversion of individuals, particularly Muslims, back to Hinduism. However, Bhagwat emphasized that this process should not be rushed or forced, stressing instead the importance of gradual progress through dialogue and mutual understanding. He noted that individuals living in India, including Muslims, share deep roots in Hindu civilization and that their ancestors were indigenous to the land. Rather than viewing reconversion as an immediate or coercive measure, Bhagwat framed it as a natural homecoming facilitated through social engagement and education. [2]

Muslims living in India are also Hindus, they have not come here from Arab countries, their home coming should be encouraged through social dialogue and understanding in a gradual manner

Demographic Concerns and Hindu Population Growth

A significant portion of Bhagwat's recent discourse has centered on what he describes as the declining Hindu population. He has called upon Hindu families to reconsider their family planning and suggested that each Hindu household should aim to have at least three children to maintain demographic balance. According to Bhagwat, scientific evidence indicates that societies with fewer than three children per couple face future demographic risks and social challenges. This appeal represents an effort to address what the RSS leadership perceives as a pressing demographic concern, though the specific data supporting such claims remains subject to broader demographic analysis. The organization argues that maintaining demographic strength is essential for the preservation of Hindu culture and traditions in the long term.[1][4][5]

Calls for Hindu Unity While Addressing Internal Divisions

Beyond reconversion efforts, Bhagwat stressed the critical need for greater organization and unity within Hindu society. He acknowledged that while the Hindu community faces no immediate external threat, remaining vigilant and strengthened is nonetheless important. The RSS chief also addressed the persistent issue of caste-based divisions within Hindu society, calling for the community to rise above these historical inequalities. He advocated for a philosophy of understanding and dialogue rather than confrontation, suggesting that discrimination arises primarily in the absence of social harmony. These statements reflect the RSS's broader ideological position emphasizing internal consolidation and social cohesion as prerequisites for cultural preservation and societal progress.[1][2][5]

Political Response and Criticism

The RSS chief's recent statements have drawn critical responses from political opposition figures. Rashtriya Janata Dal Member of Parliament Manoj Jha criticized Bhagwat's focus on Hindu unity and religious conversions, questioning why such emphasis does not extend to addressing caste-based inequalities and workplace fatalities among marginalized communities. Jha specifically pointed to deaths resulting from unsafe sewer work, highlighting what he views as inconsistencies in the RSS leadership's priorities. These criticisms underscore broader political debates in India regarding the relative importance of various social issues and the appropriate role of religious organizations in public discourse. The exchange reflects ongoing tensions between different political and social perspectives on national priorities and community welfare.[5]

Broader Context of Social Harmony and Religious Coexistence

The social harmony meeting where Bhagwat made his latest remarks was attended by representatives from diverse religious communities, including Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and various Hindu-affiliated organizations. This inclusive participation suggests an effort to frame "ghar wapsi" and Hindu consolidation within a broader context of inter-community dialogue rather than confrontation. Bhagwat's statements on social harmony emphasize that understanding and practicing inclusive philosophy can eliminate discrimination and strengthen the social fabric. The involvement of multiple religious organizations indicates that while the RSS pursues its specific agenda, it continues to engage with other faith communities in public forums dedicated to discussing shared concerns about social cohesion and cultural preservation.[1][2]

The RSS chief's recent push for intensified "ghar wapsi" efforts represents a multifaceted approach combining religious reconversion, demographic advocacy, and calls for Hindu social organization. While framing reconversion as a gradual, dialogue-based process rather than coercive action, Bhagwat has simultaneously emphasized demographic concerns and the need for internal Hindu unity. These initiatives continue to generate both support from allied organizations and criticism from political opponents who question their priority relative to other pressing social issues. The discourse reflects ongoing debates within Indian society about the balance between religious and cultural preservation efforts and broader commitments to addressing systemic inequalities and social welfare concerns.