RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Denounces Forced Conversions, Defends Return of Tribals to Hinduism

Nagpur, 6 June, 2025 – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday condemned religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, or inducement, calling them a form of “violence”, while asserting that tribals returning to the Hindu fold is not conversion but a “correction”. He made these remarks during the valedictory function of the RSS Karyakarta Vikas Varg-II held at Hedgewar Smruti Mandir in Reshimbagh, Nagpur.

Bhagwat's remarks came in response to concerns raised by the event’s chief guest, former Union Minister Arvind Netam, who warned the gathering of swayamsevaks that widespread religious conversions threaten the identity and existence of India's tribal communities. "If this continues unchecked, tribals may meet the same fate as Red Indians in America, who have lost their identity," Netam had cautioned, urging a strong anti-conversion law and proactive measures by RSS.

During his address to the gathering, Bhagwat stated that religious conversions rooted in coercion or allurements dishonour ancestral traditions.

“Conversion is violence. We are not against religious conversion when done by choice. But luring, forcing, or pressurising someone to convert is something we oppose,” Bhagwat said. “Telling people their ancestors were wrong is an insult to them.”

The RSS chief questioned the necessity of conversion if all spiritual paths are equally valid. Bhagwat referred to Saint Gulabrao Maharaj, who was once asked by missionaries why he didn’t convert to Christianity if all religious paths were true. The saint replied, “If all paths are true, then why become a Christian?” Bhagwat said such logic affirms the legitimacy of indigenous traditions.

Clarifying the RSS’ position further, he stated, “We hold no animosity towards any sect. We respect Jesus Christ and the Prophet Muhammad. But everyone should follow their path with mutual respect.”

Bhagwat added that bringing tribal communities back into the Hindu fold is not violence but a "correction". He underlined that tribal communities are not separate from Hindu society but form its very roots.

“Tribal beliefs are the origin of Hindu culture, religion, and civilisation,” Bhagwat said.

Source: TV9 Bharatvarsh

Image Source: TV9 Bharatvarsh