# Bhagwat backs LGBTQ+ inclusion, rejects changes to marriage institution

2026-08-06T15:47:01+00:00 | Politics | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said the LGBTQ+ community is an integral part of Indian society but argued that same-sex marriage should not be introduced at present. Speaking to about 2,000 Gen Z and Gen Alpha participants at an IIMUN event in Mumbai, he said changing marriage could have unintended side-effects. Bhagwat described marriage as an institution for creating families and raising future generations, rather than simply enabling two people to live together. He said society must prepare for change because “laws do not dictate society, society dictates the laws”. Bhagwat nevertheless proposed a separate legal framework allowing same-sex couples to live together with recognition and dignity. The RSS has consistently said LGBTQ+ people belong to society and should be accommodated, while preserving existing social institutions.

## Coverage

- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/india/2026/Aug/06/lgbtq-part-of-society-but-institution-of-marriage-shouldnt-be-tampered-with-rss-chief-bhagwat>
- timesnownews.com <https://www.timesnownews.com/india/laws-dont-dictate-society-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-on-lgbtq-community-same-sex-marriage-article-155324248>

Tags: LGBTQ rights, marriage law, Mohan Bhagwat, RSS, same-sex couples
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