Kolkata

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday urged the central government to take cognisance of what he described as the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, while appealing to the Hindu community in the neighbouring country to remain united for their safety. He also called upon Hindus across the world to extend support to those facing difficulties.

Speaking at an RSS programme in Kolkata, Bhagwat said the government must respond to the situation, even though not all actions can be made public. He expressed confidence that steps were being taken, whether disclosed or not, to address the issue.

“The Indian government will have to take cognisance of this and act. They may already be doing so. Some things are shared publicly, others cannot be. At times there are visible results, at times there are not, but something has to be done,” he said.

Referring to the position of Hindus in Bangladesh, Bhagwat said they are a minority and are facing challenging circumstances. He stressed that unity among them was essential for ensuring maximum protection. He also reiterated that India remains the only homeland for Hindus.

“They are a minority there and the situation is difficult. Even so, unity is necessary for their protection. Hindus around the world should help them within their capacities. We must do whatever we can,” he said.

Responding to a question from BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on the issue of Islamic fundamentalism in West Bengal, Bhagwat said that a united Hindu society could bring change in the state. However, he clarified that political change was not the RSS’s objective.

“If Hindu society stands united, change in Bengal will not take long. But thinking about political change is not my role. The Sangh is working for social transformation,” he added.

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Bhagwat’s remarks come days after the killing of a 27-year-old Hindu youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district over alleged blasphemy on December 18. The incident triggered widespread outrage, and Bangladesh’s interim government chief adviser Muhammad Yunus said on Sunday that 10 people have been arrested in connection with the case.