Addressing a women-centric gathering organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), its chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday stressed that strong family bonds and honest communication are the first line of defence against what he described as ‘Love Jihad’. Speaking at the Stri Shakti Samvad programme in Madhya Bharat, Bhagwat said social challenges cannot be tackled only through law or protests but must begin within households.

Bhagwat argued that weakening dialogue between parents and children creates emotional gaps that outsiders can exploit. He urged families to introspect and rebuild trust, questioning how external influences succeed when family connections are strong and attentive. According to him, safeguarding young women requires awareness, not isolation.

Outlining a three-layered approach, the RSS chief said the solution starts with continuous conversation at home, followed by empowering girls with confidence, clarity, and self-protection skills. The third layer, he added, lies at the community level, where society must show zero tolerance and respond collectively to such incidents instead of remaining silent spectators.

Highlighting the broader role of women, Bhagwat described them as the backbone of family, culture, and national identity. He said women play a decisive role in shaping values, social harmony, and emotional stability, linking the strength of households directly to the strength of the nation. Rejecting the mindset of restricting women in the name of safety, he called for ideological awakening and equal participation in social and national life.

Bhagwat also touched upon mental health concerns, warning that loneliness and excessive pressure for success are harming families. He encouraged setting balanced expectations and prioritising meaningful living over constant competition.