Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday issued a strong statement on the situation of Hindus in Bangladesh, saying the global Hindu community would support them if they decide to stand up for their rights. Addressing the second day of the RSS lecture series titled ‘100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons’ in Mumbai, Bhagwat said there are around 1.25 crore Hindus in Bangladesh and asserted that worldwide Hindu solidarity would emerge if they choose to resist persecution.

His remarks come amid reports of increased violence against minorities in Bangladesh following political unrest triggered by the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after the student-led ‘July Uprising’ in August 2024. The unrest intensified after the death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, with mob violence reportedly targeting Hindu businessmen, labourers, and students across the country.

On domestic issues, Bhagwat said previous governments failed to adequately address demographic changes in India, citing birth rates and illegal immigration as contributing factors. He added that the current government has begun acting on these concerns and expressed confidence in its success.

Emphasising national strength, Bhagwat said India can no longer be weakened and warned that those attempting to destabilise the country would fail. He also clarified that the RSS does not rely on corporate or institutional funding, instead raising funds from its volunteers and supporters.

Addressing questions on leadership and caste, Bhagwat said the RSS does not discriminate and that leadership positions are open to all castes, asserting that neither caste nor community determines eligibility. He further said that in Muslim-dominated areas, the Sangh avoids confrontation to prevent escalation of conflict.

The remarks followed Bhagwat’s address on the opening day of the lecture series, where he stated that the RSS is not against any group, does not seek political power, and works solely to unite society.