Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a prominent Hindu nationalist organization in India, recently asserted that India is fundamentally a Hindu nation and that no constitutional approval is necessary to affirm this identity. His remarks, made during a public address on December 21, 2025, have reignited a longstanding debate about the secular nature of India and the implications of defining the nation in religious terms.
Bhagwat’s statement comes at a time when discussions surrounding India’s identity and its secular framework are increasingly polarized. The RSS, which was founded in 1925, has been a significant force in promoting Hindu nationalism and has often been at the forefront of advocating for a Hindu-centric view of Indian identity. Bhagwat’s comments reflect a broader ideological stance that seeks to position Hindu culture and values as central to the Indian ethos.
In his address, Bhagwat emphasized that the Hindu identity of India is rooted in its history and culture, arguing that this identity does not require formal recognition through constitutional amendments. He stated, “India is a Hindu nation by its very nature, and this is a reality that does not need to be validated by the Constitution.” This assertion has sparked reactions from various political and social groups, with critics arguing that it undermines the secular principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, establishes the country as a secular state, guaranteeing freedom of religion and equality before the law for all citizens, regardless of their faith. The preamble of the Constitution explicitly declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. This framework has been a cornerstone of Indian democracy, allowing for a diverse society where multiple religions coexist.
Bhagwat’s remarks are not isolated; they are part of a broader trend among certain political factions in India that advocate for a more pronounced Hindu identity in public life. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has historical ties to the RSS, has often been accused of promoting policies that favor Hindu nationalism, leading to tensions with minority communities, particularly Muslims and Christians. Critics argue that such rhetoric can exacerbate communal tensions and undermine the secular fabric of the nation.
The implications of Bhagwat’s statement are significant. By asserting that India is a Hindu nation, he may be galvanizing support among Hindu nationalist groups while alienating minority communities. This could lead to increased polarization in Indian society, particularly in the context of upcoming elections and ongoing debates about citizenship and religious identity. The BJP has previously faced criticism for its handling of communal issues, and Bhagwat’s comments may further complicate the party’s efforts to maintain a broad coalition of support.
Historically, the question of India’s identity has been contentious. The partition of India in 1947, which led to the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation for Muslims, was rooted in religious identity and has left a lasting impact on communal relations in the region. Since then, various political movements have sought to define India in religious terms, often leading to violence and unrest.
In recent years, the rise of Hindu nationalism has been accompanied by a resurgence of debates over issues such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), both of which have been criticized for allegedly discriminating against Muslim populations. Bhagwat’s comments may be interpreted as a signal to the party’s base that the RSS and BJP remain committed to a vision of India that prioritizes Hindu identity.
As the political landscape in India continues to evolve, the discourse surrounding national identity will likely remain a focal point of contention. Bhagwat’s assertion that India is a Hindu nation without the need for constitutional endorsement raises fundamental questions about the future of secularism in India and the rights of its diverse population.
In conclusion, Mohan Bhagwat’s declaration that India is a Hindu nation without constitutional approval underscores the ongoing struggle over the definition of Indian identity. As the country approaches critical electoral milestones, the ramifications of such statements will be closely monitored, both domestically and internationally, as they may influence the trajectory of Indian politics and society in the years to come.
