The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has expanded its grassroots presence in Bengal, adding 500 new shakhas between 2023 and 2025. The RSS’s expansion has been particularly notable in Bengal, where the number of shakhas in Madhya Banga Prant alone has surged from 1,320 in March 2023 to 1,823 in 2025. This rapid growth is viewed as a major shift, indicating rising interest in RSS activities among the local population.
RSS has three regional divisions in Bengal:
- Uttar Banga Prant (North Bengal districts)
- Madhya Banga Prant (Central Bengal, including East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Bankura, Murshidabad, and Puruliya)
- Dakhin Banga Prant (South Bengal districts)
In Uttar Banga Prant, the total number of RSS Shakhas, Milans (weekly gatherings), and Mandalis (discussion forums) rose from 1,034 in 2023 to 1,153 by 2025. Similarly, Dakhin Banga Prant recorded an increase from 1,206 in 2023 to 1,564 in 2025.
Recognizing the significance of this growth, RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat conducted an open meeting in Burdwan—part of Madhya Banga—during his 11-day stay in Bengal in February. The event saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of swayamsevaks and well-wishers.
Jishnu Basu, Purba Kshetra Prachar Pramukh, attributed the growth to grassroots efforts. “The shakha network in Madhya Banga has worked diligently to connect with people through small group meetings and rallies. This consistent engagement is bearing fruit,” he said.
RSS Madhya Banga Prant Prachar Pramukh Sushavan Mukherjee echoed this sentiment. “The atmosphere all around is compelling people to return to their roots and embrace Hindutva. This is why more people are joining shakhas,” he remarked.
The BJP has also been vocal about demographic shifts in Bengal, particularly in border districts like North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas. According to Jishnu Basu, these areas have witnessed a decline in the Hindu population, making Hindu unity a key focus.
“The changing demographics in Bengal are a matter of concern,” Basu stated. “Our goal is to raise awareness and ensure that Hindus remain politically and socially united.”
During the Bengaluru Pratinidhi Sabha, RSS passed a resolution condemning the persecution of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The Sangh plans to intensify its campaign on this issue, particularly in Bengal, where it holds historical and cultural significance.
“The situation in Bangladesh is alarming. We urge the Indian government to take all possible measures to protect Hindu minorities there,” Dr. Shastri emphasized. “We also appeal to the global community to acknowledge and address this humanitarian crisis.”
