Kolkata: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat here on Saturday supported the controversial programmes of “re-conversion” of Muslims to Hinduism.

He said the government should frame laws against conversion and help stop the ruckus in Parliament.

“Those involved (the converts) were Hindus earlier and had been converted. We’re not involved in conversion, but are just bringing them back home. It’s a “ghar waapsi” (return-home) programme,” said Bhagwat at a major rally in Kolkata organised by the RSS and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.

The programme is aimed at welcoming back all those who have been diverted from the path of Hindutva.

Politicians flayed

Bhagwat criticised politicians for stalling activities inside Parliament over the issue. He said lakhs of Hindus had been converted to Islam in the past, and the Sangh’s “ghar waapsi” programme “is to bring them back to the fold. Hindus are now aware of conversions in society. We will bring back our friends. We don’t fear anyone.”

The RSS was “not out to convert anybody or change anybody’s religion”.

However, “If Hindus don’t bring about change, Hinduism will never undergo change. We stand steadfast on this issue. We will save the people from those who behead people. Until and unless the Hindus remain united and strong, none can stay in peace. India is a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu nation), and the Hindus are awakening,” he said.

Bhagwat called Pakistan “Bharat bhoomi (land of Bharat). Bhagwat said: “Pakistan was created because of what happened in 1947. It’s not permanent. Pakistan is committing crimes, Bangladeshi infiltrators are committing crimes, and we are tolerating. However, we will not tolerate any more. We know what measures to take. Only Hindus will help people who are being terrorised all over the world.”

Bhagwat’s comments, however, go against a recent statement by BJP national president Amit Shah, who said his party was against forcible conversions, and that the BJP wanted to bring a law. “So-called secular parties should support the BJP’s move. A public debate on the matter can be taken up only after political parties arrive at a consensus,” Shah had said in Kolkata.