Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has clearly stated his views on several key issues, including same-sex relationships, reservations, and the role of women. Speaking at the India International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) event in Mumbai, he said that same-sex (LGBT) cohabitation should have legal recognition, but that he opposes recognizing their relationship as marriage.
Bhagwat said that same-sex individuals are also part of society and should be given a proper place. He opined that clear rules and laws are needed for their cohabitation. However, he made it clear that this should not be linked to the institution of marriage.
“In Indian society, marriage is not just about two people living together. It is a sacred institution established to raise good offspring and build a strong society. Changing the current system would give rise to unnecessary conflicts. That is why same-sex unions should not be considered marriage,” he explained.
Speaking on other issues, Bhagwat reiterated that reservations are necessary in the country as long as social discrimination exists. He advised against turning this into a political issue, expressing hope that if corrective measures are implemented sincerely, the need for reservations could disappear in the future. Referring to relations with China and Pakistan, he suggested that during conflicts, people should follow what the government says. He said that maintaining peace and harmony is the Indian solution, and that there should be no permanent enmity, since humanity is one. Responding to a question about the role of women in the Sangh, he said their role is equal to that of men, and that they are complementary to each other. He dismissed the argument that women have no place in the Sangh, explaining that a separate parallel organization exists for women solely to ensure there is no interference between the activities of the two groups.