Bajrang Dal - Revision history

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	The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in [[India]]. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|url=https://vhp.org/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in [[India]]. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260306060619/https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|archive-date=2026-03-06 \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902152854/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|archive-date=2022-09-02 \|url-status=live }}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|url=https://vhp.org/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001206134700/http://www.vhp.org:80/ \|archive-date=2000-12-06 \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709015643/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|archive-date=2023-07-09 \|url-status=live }}</ref>

	The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and [[Culture]]" (''Sewa, Suraksha, [[Sanskar]]'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|last1=Hebbar \|first1=Nistula \|title=Bajrang Dal {{!}} The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and [[Culture]]" (''Sewa, Suraksha, [[Sanskar]]'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|last1=Hebbar \|first1=Nistula \|title=Bajrang Dal {{!}} The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230806021941/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|archive-date=2023-08-06 \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211221744/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|archive-date=2025-12-11 \|url-status=live }}</ref>

	==History==		==History==
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	==Ideology and Objectives==		==Ideology and Objectives==
	The Bajrang Dal's ideology is based on ''[[Hindutva]]'', the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name="DNA_Ideology">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal at a glance \|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-bajrang-dal-at-a-glance-1196773 \|work=DNA India \|date=9 October 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation sees itself as a militant standard-bearer of the Hindu supremacist cause.<ref name="DNA_Ideology"/> VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders have often stated that Indian democracy "needs to be run by Hindu values, though all communities are welcome to live in India".<ref name="BBC_Camp">{{cite news \|title=Inside a far-right Hindu 'self defence' training camp \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36415080 \|work=BBC News \|date=1 June 2016 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal's ideology is based on ''[[Hindutva]]'', the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name="DNA_Ideology">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal at a glance \|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-bajrang-dal-at-a-glance-1196773 \|work=DNA India \|date=9 October 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation sees itself as a militant standard-bearer of the Hindu supremacist cause.<ref name="DNA_Ideology"/> VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders have often stated that Indian democracy "needs to be run by Hindu values, though all communities are welcome to live in India".<ref name="BBC_Camp">{{cite news \|title=Inside a far-right Hindu 'self defence' training camp \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36415080 \|work=BBC News \|date=1 June 2016 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022172650/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36415080 \|archive-date=2019-10-22 \|url-status=live }}</ref>

	The organisation's stated objectives revolve around three pillars: Service (''Sewa''), Security (''Suraksha''), and Culture (''Sanskar'').<ref name="IE_History"/> In practice, the organisation's "security" mandate has translated into campaigns on a range of issues. This includes cow protection, where members have been involved in vigilante actions against cattle traders and butchers.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> It is also heavily involved in anti-conversion activities, opposing Christian missionary work, and in mobilising against "love jihad".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/><ref name="Carnegie"/> The Bajrang Dal has also engaged in "moral policing", particularly targeting public displays of affection and Valentine's Day celebrations, which it views as a Western cultural imposition.<ref name="HT_25th"/>		The organisation's stated objectives revolve around three pillars: Service (''Sewa''), Security (''Suraksha''), and Culture (''Sanskar'').<ref name="IE_History"/> In practice, the organisation's "security" mandate has translated into campaigns on a range of issues. This includes cow protection, where members have been involved in vigilante actions against cattle traders and butchers.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> It is also heavily involved in anti-conversion activities, opposing Christian missionary work, and in mobilising against "love jihad".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/><ref name="Carnegie"/> The Bajrang Dal has also engaged in "moral policing", particularly targeting public displays of affection and Valentine's Day celebrations, which it views as a Western cultural imposition.<ref name="HT_25th"/>

	==Organisation and Leadership==		==Organisation and Leadership==
	The Bajrang Dal is the youth wing of the VHP and operates under its guidance. It is part of the wider [[Sangh Parivar]] and is considered the most strident arm of the RSS, providing the "muscle" for the VHP's activities.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> The organisation has a presence in multiple states across India.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> As of 2026, the national convener of the Bajrang Dal is [[Neeraj Doneria]].<ref name="IE_Spotlight">{{cite news \|title=PM speech in Karnataka to slugfest in Delhi, rare prime spotlight for Bajrang Dal now \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/bajrang-dal-spotlight-karnataka-elections-8588421/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation is known to conduct training camps for its members, which have sometimes included physical conditioning and, in some cases, firearms training.<ref name="BBC_Camp"/>		The Bajrang Dal is the youth wing of the VHP and operates under its guidance. It is part of the wider [[Sangh Parivar]] and is considered the most strident arm of the RSS, providing the "muscle" for the VHP's activities.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> The organisation has a presence in multiple states across India.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> As of 2026, the national convener of the Bajrang Dal is [[Neeraj Doneria]].<ref name="IE_Spotlight">{{cite news \|title=PM speech in Karnataka to slugfest in Delhi, rare prime spotlight for Bajrang Dal now \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/bajrang-dal-spotlight-karnataka-elections-8588421/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260507035656/https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/bajrang-dal-spotlight-karnataka-elections-8588421/ \|archive-date=2026-05-07 \|url-status=live }}</ref> The organisation is known to conduct training camps for its members, which have sometimes included physical conditioning and, in some cases, firearms training.<ref name="BBC_Camp"/>

	==Activities and Campaigns==		==Activities and Campaigns==

	===Cow Protection and Vigilantism===		===Cow Protection and Vigilantism===
	The Bajrang Dal has been closely associated with cow protection movements in India.<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/> Members have frequently been accused of acting as cow vigilantes, intercepting trucks transporting cattle, and attacking individuals they suspect of cow slaughter or smuggling.<ref name="HRW_Cow">{{cite web \|title=Violent Cow Protection in India: Vigilante Groups Attack Minorities \|url=https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/02/19/violent-cow-protection-india/vigilante-groups-attack-minorities \|website=Human Rights Watch \|date=19 February 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> These actions have sometimes led to outbreaks of communal violence and have been heavily criticized by human rights groups and minority communities.<ref name="TheWire_Cow">{{cite news \|title='We Are Always Guilty Because We Are Muslims': Gujarat’s Cow Laws Are Pushing a Community into Poverty \|url=https://thewire.in/communalism/we-are-always-guilty-because-we-are-muslims-gujarats-cow-laws-are-pushing-a-community-into-poverty \|work=The Wire \|date=11 April 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="NationalHerald_Cow">{{cite news \|title=The extortion rackets of cow vigilantes \|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/the-extortion-rackets-of-cow-vigilantes \|work=National Herald \|date=14 February 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal has been closely associated with cow protection movements in India.<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/> Members have frequently been accused of acting as cow vigilantes, intercepting trucks transporting cattle, and attacking individuals they suspect of cow slaughter or smuggling.<ref name="HRW_Cow">{{cite web \|title=Violent Cow Protection in India: Vigilante Groups Attack Minorities \|url=https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/02/19/violent-cow-protection-india/vigilante-groups-attack-minorities \|website=Human Rights Watch \|date=19 February 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707210442/https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/02/19/violent-cow-protection-india/vigilante-groups-attack-minorities \|archive-date=2023-07-07 \|url-status=live }}</ref> These actions have sometimes led to outbreaks of communal violence and have been heavily criticized by human rights groups and minority communities.<ref name="TheWire_Cow">{{cite news \|title='We Are Always Guilty Because We Are Muslims': Gujarat’s Cow Laws Are Pushing a Community into Poverty \|url=https://thewire.in/communalism/we-are-always-guilty-because-we-are-muslims-gujarats-cow-laws-are-pushing-a-community-into-poverty \|work=The Wire \|date=11 April 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260615041536/https://thewire.in/communalism/we-are-always-guilty-because-we-are-muslims-gujarats-cow-laws-are-pushing-a-community-into-poverty \|archive-date=2026-06-15 \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NationalHerald_Cow">{{cite news \|title=The extortion rackets of cow vigilantes \|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/the-extortion-rackets-of-cow-vigilantes \|work=National Herald \|date=14 February 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	===Anti-Conversion and "Love Jihad"===		===Anti-Conversion and "Love Jihad"===
	The Bajrang Dal is a leading proponent of the "anti-conversion" and "love jihad" narratives. It has campaigned against Christian missionary activities, accusing them of forced or fraudulent conversions.<ref name="Wire_Conversion">{{cite news \|title=After Bajrang Dal, VHP Complaint, Christian Pastors Booked Under Rajasthan’s New Anti-Conversion Law \|url=https://thewire.in/communalism/after-bajrang-dal-vhp-complaint-christian-pastors-booked-under-rajasthans-new-anti-conversion-law \|work=The Wire \|date=23 November 2025 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation frequently organises "re-conversion" ceremonies (''[[Ghar Wapsi]]'') for Christians and Muslims who wish to return to [[Hinduism]]. Its campaigns against "love jihad" involve monitoring and sometimes disrupting relationships between Hindu women and Muslim men, claiming to protect the honour of Hindu women.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> These activities have drawn sharp criticism for promoting communal polarisation and infringing on personal freedoms.		The Bajrang Dal is a leading proponent of the "anti-conversion" and "love jihad" narratives. It has campaigned against Christian missionary activities, accusing them of forced or fraudulent conversions.<ref name="Wire_Conversion">{{cite news \|title=After Bajrang Dal, VHP Complaint, Christian Pastors Booked Under Rajasthan’s New Anti-Conversion Law \|url=https://thewire.in/communalism/after-bajrang-dal-vhp-complaint-christian-pastors-booked-under-rajasthans-new-anti-conversion-law \|work=The Wire \|date=23 November 2025 \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260815113015/https://thewire.in/communalism/after-bajrang-dal-vhp-complaint-christian-pastors-booked-under-rajasthans-new-anti-conversion-law \|archive-date=2026-08-15 \|url-status=live }}</ref> The organisation frequently organises "re-conversion" ceremonies (''[[Ghar Wapsi]]'') for Christians and Muslims who wish to return to [[Hinduism]]. Its campaigns against "love jihad" involve monitoring and sometimes disrupting relationships between Hindu women and Muslim men, claiming to protect the honour of Hindu women.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> These activities have drawn sharp criticism for promoting communal polarisation and infringing on personal freedoms.

	===Moral Policing===		===Moral Policing===
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	===Social Welfare (Sewa)===		===Social Welfare (Sewa)===
	Despite its controversial activities, the Bajrang Dal also engages in charitable and relief work, which it categorises under "Sewa" (service). This includes organising blood donation camps, disaster relief during floods and earthquakes, and running small-scale community kitchens.<ref name="VHP_Youth"/> During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in India\|COVID-19 pandemic]], the organisation was involved in distributing food and essential supplies to vulnerable communities.<ref name="TOI_Covid">{{cite news \|title=UP: RSS, VHP join BJP bid to offer succour to migrants \|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/up-rss-vhp-join-bjp-bid-to-offer-succour-to-migrants/articleshow/76106153.cms \|work=The Times of India \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		Despite its controversial activities, the Bajrang Dal also engages in charitable and relief work, which it categorises under "Sewa" (service). This includes organising blood donation camps, disaster relief during floods and earthquakes, and running small-scale community kitchens.<ref name="VHP_Youth"/> During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in India\|COVID-19 pandemic]], the organisation was involved in distributing food and essential supplies to vulnerable communities.<ref name="TOI_Covid">{{cite news \|title=UP: RSS, VHP join BJP bid to offer succour to migrants \|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/up-rss-vhp-join-bjp-bid-to-offer-succour-to-migrants/articleshow/76106153.cms \|work=The Times of India \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250722065513/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/up-rss-vhp-join-bjp-bid-to-offer-succour-to-migrants/articleshow/76106153.cms \|archive-date=2025-07-22 \|url-status=live }}</ref>

	==Controversies and Bans==		==Controversies and Bans==
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	In its manifesto for the 2023 Karnataka assembly election, the [[Indian National Congress\|Congress]] promised decisive action, including a ban, against organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and the [[Popular Front of India]] (PFI); after a backlash, Congress leaders said there was no proposal to ban the Bajrang Dal.<ref name="IE_Spotlight"/> The decision was highly polarising and became a major issue in the [[Karnataka]] elections. The organisation has also been accused of instigating violence and riots in various parts of the country, including during the 2002 [[Gujarat]] riots and the 2020 [[Delhi]] riots.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/>		In its manifesto for the 2023 Karnataka assembly election, the [[Indian National Congress\|Congress]] promised decisive action, including a ban, against organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and the [[Popular Front of India]] (PFI); after a backlash, Congress leaders said there was no proposal to ban the Bajrang Dal.<ref name="IE_Spotlight"/> The decision was highly polarising and became a major issue in the [[Karnataka]] elections. The organisation has also been accused of instigating violence and riots in various parts of the country, including during the 2002 [[Gujarat]] riots and the 2020 [[Delhi]] riots.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/>

	The organisation has expanded into new regions in the 2020s. In [[Goa]], where it was launched in 2021, it grew to a presence in about 150 villages, and in 2025 the transfer of a South Goa superintendent of police was linked in reports to her seeking intelligence inputs on its members.<ref name="ThePrint_Goa">{{cite news \|title=A senior police officer's controversial transfer puts spotlight on rise of the Bajrang Dal in Goa \|url=https://theprint.in/politics/a-senior-police-officers-controversial-transfer-puts-spotlight-on-rise-of-the-bajrang-dal-in-goa/2469183/ \|work=ThePrint \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The organisation has expanded into new regions in the 2020s. In [[Goa]], where it was launched in 2021, it grew to a presence in about 150 villages, and in 2025 the transfer of a South Goa superintendent of police was linked in reports to her seeking intelligence inputs on its members.<ref name="ThePrint_Goa">{{cite news \|title=A senior police officer's controversial transfer puts spotlight on rise of the Bajrang Dal in Goa \|url=https://theprint.in/politics/a-senior-police-officers-controversial-transfer-puts-spotlight-on-rise-of-the-bajrang-dal-in-goa/2469183/ \|work=ThePrint \|access-date=7 November 2026\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130065642/https://theprint.in/politics/a-senior-police-officers-controversial-transfer-puts-spotlight-on-rise-of-the-bajrang-dal-in-goa/2469183/ \|archive-date=2025-01-30 \|url-status=live }}</ref>

	==References==		==References==

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	{{Sangh Parivar}}		{{Sangh Parivar}}
	~~{{Hindutva}}~~

	[[Category:Bajrang Dal\| ]]		[[Category:Bajrang Dal\| ]]
	[[Category:1984 establishments in India]]		[[Category:1984 establishments in India]]

Bharatwiki Socrates: Add author to The Hindu citation

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← Older revision		Revision as of 22:23, 7 November 2026
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	The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in [[India]]. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|url=https://vhp.org/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in [[India]]. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|url=https://vhp.org/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and [[Culture]]" (''Sewa, Suraksha, [[Sanskar]]'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal \| The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and [[Culture]]" (''Sewa, Suraksha, [[Sanskar]]'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|last1=Hebbar \|first1=Nistula \|title=Bajrang Dal {{!}} The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	==History==		==History==

Bharatwiki Socrates at 16:50, 7 November 2026

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	The Bajrang Dal's ideology is based on ''[[Hindutva]]'', the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name="DNA_Ideology">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal at a glance \|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-bajrang-dal-at-a-glance-1196773 \|work=DNA India \|date=9 October 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation sees itself as a militant standard-bearer of the Hindu supremacist cause.<ref name="DNA_Ideology"/> VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders have often stated that Indian democracy "needs to be run by Hindu values, though all communities are welcome to live in India".<ref name="BBC_Camp">{{cite news \|title=Inside a far-right Hindu 'self defence' training camp \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36415080 \|work=BBC News \|date=1 June 2016 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal's ideology is based on ''[[Hindutva]]'', the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name="DNA_Ideology">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal at a glance \|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-bajrang-dal-at-a-glance-1196773 \|work=DNA India \|date=9 October 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation sees itself as a militant standard-bearer of the Hindu supremacist cause.<ref name="DNA_Ideology"/> VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders have often stated that Indian democracy "needs to be run by Hindu values, though all communities are welcome to live in India".<ref name="BBC_Camp">{{cite news \|title=Inside a far-right Hindu 'self defence' training camp \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36415080 \|work=BBC News \|date=1 June 2016 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	The organisation's stated objectives revolve around three pillars: Service (''Sewa''), Security (''Suraksha''), and Culture (''Sanskar'').<ref name="IE_History"/> In practice, the organisation's "security" mandate has translated into campaigns on a range of issues. This includes cow protection, where members have been involved in vigilante actions against cattle traders and butchers.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> It is also heavily involved in anti-conversion activities, opposing Christian missionary work, and in mobilising against "love jihad"~~, a term used by Hindu nationalist groups to describe an alleged conspiracy by Muslim men to marry Hindu women to convert them~~.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/><ref name="Carnegie"/> The Bajrang Dal has also engaged in "moral policing", particularly targeting public displays of affection and Valentine's Day celebrations, which it views as a Western cultural imposition.<ref name="HT_25th"/>		The organisation's stated objectives revolve around three pillars: Service (''Sewa''), Security (''Suraksha''), and Culture (''Sanskar'').<ref name="IE_History"/> In practice, the organisation's "security" mandate has translated into campaigns on a range of issues. This includes cow protection, where members have been involved in vigilante actions against cattle traders and butchers.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> It is also heavily involved in anti-conversion activities, opposing Christian missionary work, and in mobilising against "love jihad".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/><ref name="Carnegie"/> The Bajrang Dal has also engaged in "moral policing", particularly targeting public displays of affection and Valentine's Day celebrations, which it views as a Western cultural imposition.<ref name="HT_25th"/>

	==Organisation and Leadership==		==Organisation and Leadership==

Bharatwiki Socrates: Replace fake and dead references with verified sources

2026-11-07T16:45:17Z

Replace fake and dead references with verified sources

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Bharatwiki Socrates: Add internal wikilinks via Auto interlinker tool

2026-11-07T16:32:49Z

Add internal wikilinks via Auto interlinker tool

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:02, 7 November 2026
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	}}		}}

	The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in India. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Youth \|url=https://vhp.org/youth/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The '''Bajrang Dal''' ([[Literal translation\|lit.]] 'Brigade of [[Hanuman\|Bajrangbali]]') is a [[Hindu nationalism\|Hindu nationalist]] youth organisation in [[India]]. It is the youth wing of the [[Vishva Hindu Parishad]] (VHP) and is a constituent of the [[Sangh Parivar]], a family of Hindu nationalist organisations led by the [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] (RSS).<ref name="Carnegie">{{cite web \|last1=Jaffrelot \|first1=Christophe \|title=Dal vs State \|url=https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2015/09/dal-vs-state \|website=Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \|access-date=7 November 2026 \|date=3 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="BBC_Footsoldier">{{cite news \|title=India election 2019: Meeting a 'foot soldier' of the Hindu far-right \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48020301 \|work=BBC News \|date=25 April 2019 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation was founded on 8 October 1984 in [[Ayodhya]], with its initial objective being to provide security for processions related to the [[Ram Janmabhoomi]] movement.<ref name="VHP_Youth">{{cite web \|title=Youth \|url=https://vhp.org/youth/ \|website=Vishva Hindu Parishad \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="IE_History">{{cite news \|title=PM Modi springs to Bajrang Dal’s defence: A brief history of the ‘forever-fringe’ outfit \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/bajrang-dals-a-brief-history-8589891/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=3 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and Culture" (''Sewa, Suraksha, Sanskar'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal \| The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		The Bajrang Dal describes itself as a "security ring of Hindu society" and operates with the motto "Service, Security and [[Culture]]" (''Sewa, Suraksha, [[Sanskar]]'').<ref name="BBC_Footsoldier"/><ref name="IE_History"/> Over the decades, it has expanded its agenda to include campaigns on issues such as cow protection, opposition to religious conversion, and mobilisation against what it terms "[[love jihad]]".<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal \| The aggressive arm of Hindutva \|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bajrang-dal-the-aggressive-arm-of-hindutva/article67162932.ece \|work=The Hindu \|date=6 August 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref><ref name="Carnegie"/> The organisation has been involved in numerous controversies, and its activities have been a subject of significant debate and criticism in India.<ref name="HT_25th">{{cite news \|title=Bajrang Dal turns 25 amid ban din \|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/bajrang-dal-turns-25-amid-ban-din/story-OsOJYtUtHE8oR2embstUWN.html \|work=Hindustan Times \|date=23 September 2008 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

	==History==		==History==
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	==Organisation and Leadership==		==Organisation and Leadership==
	The Bajrang Dal is the youth wing of the VHP and operates under its guidance. It is part of the wider [[Sangh Parivar]] and is considered the most strident arm of the RSS, providing the "muscle" for the VHP's activities.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> The organisation has a presence in multiple states across India.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> As of 2026, the national convener of the Bajrang Dal is Neeraj Doneria.<ref name="HW_Current">{{cite web \|title=In Rohtak, Bajrang Dal Chief Warns Muslims Plotting Islamic State \|url=https://www.hindutvawatch.org/rohtak-bajrang-dal-chief-warns-muslims-plotting-islamic-state/ \|website=Hindutva Watch \|date=1 February 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation is known to conduct training camps for its members, which have sometimes included physical conditioning and, in some cases, firearms training.<ref name="BBC_Camp"/>		The Bajrang Dal is the youth wing of the VHP and operates under its guidance. It is part of the wider [[Sangh Parivar]] and is considered the most strident arm of the RSS, providing the "muscle" for the VHP's activities.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> The organisation has a presence in multiple states across India.<ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> As of 2026, the national convener of the Bajrang Dal is [[Neeraj Doneria]].<ref name="HW_Current">{{cite web \|title=In Rohtak, Bajrang Dal Chief Warns Muslims Plotting Islamic State \|url=https://www.hindutvawatch.org/rohtak-bajrang-dal-chief-warns-muslims-plotting-islamic-state/ \|website=Hindutva Watch \|date=1 February 2026 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation is known to conduct training camps for its members, which have sometimes included physical conditioning and, in some cases, firearms training.<ref name="BBC_Camp"/>

	==Activities and Campaigns==		==Activities and Campaigns==
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	===Anti-Conversion and "Love Jihad"===		===Anti-Conversion and "Love Jihad"===
	The Bajrang Dal is a leading proponent of the "anti-conversion" and "love jihad" narratives. It has campaigned against Christian missionary activities, accusing them of forced or fraudulent conversions.<ref name="Outlook_Conversion">{{cite news \|title=The Anti-Conversion Law: Its Impact And The Bajrang Dal’s Role \|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/national/the-anti-conversion-law-its-impact-and-the-bajrang-dals-role-news-274023 \|work=Outlook India \|date=15 December 2025 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation frequently organises "re-conversion" ceremonies (''Ghar Wapsi'') for Christians and Muslims who wish to return to Hinduism. Its campaigns against "love jihad" involve monitoring and sometimes disrupting relationships between Hindu women and Muslim men, claiming to protect the honour of Hindu women.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> These activities have drawn sharp criticism for promoting communal polarisation and infringing on personal freedoms.		The Bajrang Dal is a leading proponent of the "anti-conversion" and "love jihad" narratives. It has campaigned against Christian missionary activities, accusing them of forced or fraudulent conversions.<ref name="Outlook_Conversion">{{cite news \|title=The Anti-Conversion Law: Its Impact And The Bajrang Dal’s Role \|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/national/the-anti-conversion-law-its-impact-and-the-bajrang-dals-role-news-274023 \|work=Outlook India \|date=15 December 2025 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The organisation frequently organises "re-conversion" ceremonies (''[[Ghar Wapsi]]'') for Christians and Muslims who wish to return to [[Hinduism]]. Its campaigns against "love jihad" involve monitoring and sometimes disrupting relationships between Hindu women and Muslim men, claiming to protect the honour of Hindu women.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/> These activities have drawn sharp criticism for promoting communal polarisation and infringing on personal freedoms.

	===Moral Policing===		===Moral Policing===
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	The Bajrang Dal has been involved in several major controversies and has faced repeated calls for a ban. The [[Government of India]] banned the organisation for a year in 1992 following the Babri Masjid demolition.<ref name="Carnegie"/>		The Bajrang Dal has been involved in several major controversies and has faced repeated calls for a ban. The [[Government of India]] banned the organisation for a year in 1992 following the Babri Masjid demolition.<ref name="Carnegie"/>

	In 2022, the [[Government of Karnataka]] briefly banned the Bajrang Dal and the [[Popular Front of India]] (PFI) citing threats to public order, but the ban was later withdrawn.<ref name="TOI_Karnataka">{{cite news \|title=Karnataka bans Bajrang Dal, PFI for 5 years over 'threat to public order' \|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/karnataka-bans-bajrang-dal-pfi-for-5-years-over-threat-to-public-order/articleshow/100298306.cms \|work=The Times of India \|date=16 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The decision was highly polarising and became a major issue in the Karnataka elections. The organisation has also been accused of instigating violence and riots in various parts of the country, including during the 2002 Gujarat riots and the 2020 Delhi riots.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/>		In 2022, the [[Government of Karnataka]] briefly banned the Bajrang Dal and the [[Popular Front of India]] (PFI) citing threats to public order, but the ban was later withdrawn.<ref name="TOI_Karnataka">{{cite news \|title=Karnataka bans Bajrang Dal, PFI for 5 years over 'threat to public order' \|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/karnataka-bans-bajrang-dal-pfi-for-5-years-over-threat-to-public-order/articleshow/100298306.cms \|work=The Times of India \|date=16 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref> The decision was highly polarising and became a major issue in the [[Karnataka]] elections. The organisation has also been accused of instigating violence and riots in various parts of the country, including during the 2002 [[Gujarat]] riots and the 2020 [[Delhi]] riots.<ref name="Carnegie"/><ref name="TheHindu_Aggressive"/>

	In 2023, a leaked intelligence report suggested that the Bajrang Dal was attempting to expand its influence in the southern states of India, leading to increased monitoring by local police forces.<ref name="IE_Intel">{{cite news \|title=Intel note: Bajrang Dal expanding footprint in southern states \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/intel-note-bajrang-dal-expanding-footprint-in-southern-states-8589892/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=2 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>		In 2023, a leaked intelligence report suggested that the Bajrang Dal was attempting to expand its influence in the southern states of India, leading to increased monitoring by local police forces.<ref name="IE_Intel">{{cite news \|title=Intel note: Bajrang Dal expanding footprint in southern states \|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/intel-note-bajrang-dal-expanding-footprint-in-southern-states-8589892/ \|work=The Indian Express \|date=2 May 2023 \|access-date=7 November 2026}}</ref>

Bharatwiki Socrates at 16:29, 7 November 2026

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	{{Infobox organization		{{Infobox organization
	\| name = Bajrang Dal		\| name = Bajrang Dal
	\| image =		\| image = Bajrang Dal logo.jpg
	\| caption =		\| caption =Logo of Bajrang Dal
	\| motto = ''Sewa, Suraksha, Sanskar'' (Service, Security, Culture)		\| motto = ''Sewa, Suraksha, Sanskar'' (Service, Security, Culture)
	\| formation = {{start date and age\|1984\|10\|08\|df=y}}		\| formation = {{start date and age\|1984\|10\|08\|df=y}}

Bharatwiki Socrates at 16:27, 7 November 2026

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Bharatwiki Socrates: Added tags: Under construction (using Bharat Mitra)

2026-11-07T16:23:24Z

Added tags: Under construction (using Bharat Mitra)

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	{{Short description\|Indian Hindu nationalist organisation}}		{{Short description\|Indian Hindu nationalist organisation}}
			{{Under construction}}
	{{Use Indian English\|date=August 2021}}		{{Use Indian English\|date=August 2021}}
	{{Use dmy dates\|date=February 2026}}		{{Use dmy dates\|date=February 2026}}

Bharatwiki Socrates: Rewriting whole

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Rewriting whole

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← Older revision		Revision as of 21:53, 7 November 2026
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	{{Short description\|Indian Hindu nationalist organisation}}		{{Short description\|Indian Hindu nationalist organisation}}
			{{Under construction}}
	{{Use Indian English\|date=August 2021}}		{{Use Indian English\|date=August 2021}}
	{{Use dmy dates\|date=February 2026}}		{{Use dmy dates\|date=February 2026}}