‘LGBTQ people deserve dignity’: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks on inclusion, marriage and modern society spark discussion

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that LGBTQ individuals are an inseparable part of society and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. His remarks came during an event on ‘Contemporary Motherhood’ organised by the Vishwa Mangalya Sabha in Nagpur, where he also spoke on family values, marriage, parenting and the influence of modern lifestyles.

Bhagwat’s comments on LGBTQ inclusion have drawn attention as he discussed balancing India’s traditions with the realities of a changing society.

‘LGBTQ is part of our society’

During his address, Mohan Bhagwat said that members of the LGBTQ community should not be looked down upon.

He emphasised that they are part of society and deserve to live with dignity, underlining the need for respect and compassion while discussing broader social issues.

His statement comes amid ongoing national conversations around equality, inclusion and the rights of LGBTQ individuals in India.

Marriage instils responsibility, says Bhagwat

The RSS chief also spoke about the institution of marriage, describing it as a discipline that encourages responsibility and moral values.

According to Bhagwat, marriage plays an important role in building stable families and society.

Referring to live-in relationships, he expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of avoiding responsibilities in pursuit of personal happiness. He said societies around the world were already witnessing the consequences of such changes.

ALSO READ : ‘Your Resignation Could Be Next’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns PM Modi as Demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s Exit Intensifies

At the same time, Bhagwat clarified that embracing modernity is necessary and that adapting to changing times has always been part of India’s traditions.

Parents should lead by example

Addressing concerns about the younger generation’s increasing dependence on smartphones and social media, Bhagwat urged parents to practise the same discipline they expect from their children.

He said elders must become role models rather than relying solely on rules.”Be the change you want to see in society. Reduce your time on social media. Follow mobile discipline.”

He observed that many parents ask children to limit mobile usage while remaining heavily attached to their own devices. Bhagwat also noted that giving smartphones to children simply to calm them down could have long-term consequences.

Dialogue within families is essential

The RSS chief stressed the importance of open communication within families, saying conversations between parents and children are essential for addressing questions, concerns and changing social realities.

He also described Generation Z as emotional and highly influenced by what they see around them, adding that meaningful engagement from families can help guide young people more effectively.

Modernity with cultural roots

Reflecting on India’s cultural evolution, Bhagwat argued that the country should embrace modern developments without losing its civilisational values.

He also said that the legacy of British rule led many Indians to believe that ancient traditions had little value, while adding that several Western societies are now facing challenges arising from what he described as an incomplete understanding of social issues.

Bhagwat’s speech combined themes of inclusion, family responsibility and cultural identity, with his remarks on LGBTQ dignity emerging as one of the most discussed aspects of the event.