‘India Belongs to Everyone’: RSS Chief Calls for Unity After Student’s Racial Assault

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday called for unity and social harmony amid rising concerns over attacks on migrants and the death of a Tripura student following an alleged racial assault in Dehradun.

Speaking at a gathering in Sonpairi village in Chhattisgarh, Bhagwat stressed that India belongs to everyone and that no individual should be judged on the basis of caste, wealth, language, or region.

“Do not judge people by caste, wealth, language, or geography. Treat everyone as your own. The entire country belongs to all of US,” Bhagwat said.

Context: Death of Tripura Student

Bhagwat’s remarks come in the wake of the death of Anjel Chakma, a final-year MBA student from Tripura, who succumbed to injuries on December 26 after being hospitalised for 17 days. The incident allegedly took place at a roadside canteen in Dehradun.

According to Anjel’s father, the attack occurred when his son tried to defend his younger brother, who was allegedly subjected to racial slurs and called “Chinese.” When Anjel asserted that they were Indians, the attackers allegedly assaulted him with blunt and sharp objects.

First Step Towards Harmony

Reiterating his message of inclusivity, the RSS chief said that eliminating discrimination and alienation from one’s mindset is essential for national unity.

“Treating everyone as one’s own and removing feelings of discrimination and separation are the first steps towards harmony. This spirit alone represents true social harmony, and the entire nation belongs to everyone,” Bhagwat said.

He also emphasised that equal access to public facilities and places of worship is a matter of solidarity, not conflict, and reflects the constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination.

On Social Stability and Trust

Referring to reports of atrocities against minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh, Bhagwat called for introspection and constructive solutions rather than mere discussion.

“If we are stable from within, no external crisis can affect us. There should be no discrimination among Hindus, and internal cohesion is essential to face external challenges,” he said.

Bhagwat also spoke about religious conversions, linking the issue to a decline in social trust. He underlined the importance of rebuilding grassroots-level connections and fostering understanding to strengthen social cohesion.

“Mutual understanding and trust are fundamental to preserving harmony in society,” he added.