RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on Modi Retirement, US Tariffs, BJP Ties & More | Key Quotes

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday held a marathon press conference in New Delhi to mark the organisation’s centenary year.

Concluding his three-day lecture series at Vigyan Bhawan, the Sarsanghchalak addressed a wide spectrum of issues, from the RSS’s relationship with the BJP to population policy, education, and US tariffs.

Key Takeaways from Bhagwat’s Address:

On ties with BJP:
Bhagwat dismissed speculation of rifts, saying RSS maintains “good coordination” with both central and state governments.

“There can be matbhed (differences of opinion), but no manbhed (discord). We move in one direction, not different ones,” he said.

On BJP leadership:
Responding to questions about the RSS’s influence on the BJP, Bhagwat said the Sangh has no role in selecting the party president.

“It’s completely wrong. If we were deciding, would it have taken so long?” he remarked, referring to J P Nadda’s appointment.

On population policy:
Bhagwat urged families to have three children, saying India’s demographic balance must be maintained.

“India’s average is 2.1. But there is no 0.1 child—2.1 means three,” he said.

On retirement at 75:
Clarifying remarks seen as a reference to Prime Minister Modi, Bhagwat said he was quoting late RSS leader Moropant Pingle’s witticism and never advocated retirement at 75.

“I never said I will or someone else should retire,” he stressed.

On leadership standards:
Asked about bills seeking removal of ministers, Bhagwat said leadership must be “untainted and transparent,” a principle acceptable to all, including the RSS.

On illegal migration and conversions:
The RSS chief flagged illegal migration and forced conversions as threats to demographic balance.

“We should not give jobs to illegal immigrants; we should give jobs to our own people, including Muslims,” he said.

On Trump’s tariffs:
Bhagwat said the RSS would not dictate government policy on US trade measures.

“We don’t tell the government how to deal with Trump. They know what to do, and we will support it,” he added.

On Gurukul education:
He also advocated integrating Gurukul learning with mainstream education to preserve India’s traditions.