World News
RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat faces protests and visa push ahead of NYC rally
Advocacy groups and public figures are denouncing an upcoming appearance by the leader of the Indian Hindu nationalist organization Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
The short version
- Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to speak at the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
- A coalition of faith and advocacy groups plan to protest the event, accusing the RSS of promoting violence and discrimination against religious minorities in India.
- The US Commission on International Religious Freedom has recommended revoking Bhagwat's visa, while New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani voiced opposition to the RSS's platform but noted the city lacks authority to cancel the private event.
Key facts
- Mohan Bhagwat, leader of the Hindu paramilitary organization Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), is scheduled to speak at the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden.[Al Jazeera]
- The event is being organized by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue, a non-profit group.[Al Jazeera]
- The US Commission on International Religious Freedom called on federal authorities to revoke Bhagwat's visa and apply targeted sanctions, citing his alleged role in religious freedom violations in India.[Al Jazeera]
- New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly opposed the RSS's platform while stating the city likely lacks the jurisdiction to cancel the private gathering.[Al Jazeera]
- Advocacy groups, faith organizations, and unprivileged-caste groups are organizing protests outside the venue.[Al Jazeera]
What remains uncertain
- It remains uncertain whether federal officials will take any action regarding Bhagwat's visa prior to the scheduled rally.[Al Jazeera]