Congress questions RSS status as Mohan Bhagwat begins US tour

Patole challenged the legality of the organization’s operations, citing a lack of formal registration and opaque funding channels across 36 countries. The Congress leader questioned why Bhagwat proceeded with his visit despite vocal resistance from New York City officials. Congress MP Pawan Khera echoed the skepticism, suggesting the RSS leadership should be held accountable for past domestic controversies rather than focusing on international optics.

The friction centers on an upcoming "Universal Oneness Celebration" at Madison Square Garden scheduled for August 29. New York City official Zohran Mamdani publicly stated his opposition to the rally, describing the movement’s ideology as exclusionary and contrary to his vision of a secular, pluralistic India. While Mamdani acknowledged that the city may lack the legal authority to cancel the privately organized gathering, his comments have drawn sharp rebukes from within India.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey defended the RSS chief, framing the opposition as an insult to India itself. Dubey argued that political disagreements should not translate into hostility toward national figures traveling abroad. Bhagwat’s visit, marking the start of a three-nation tour including Canada and the UK, serves as a lead-up to the organization’s centenary year celebrations.