NEW YORK: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has opposed an event featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat.
Bhagwat plans to speak at the event in Manhattan on August 29.
Mamdani said he does not support the event. However, he said the city may not have the legal power to cancel a private event.
Mamdani Questions the Event
Reuters reported that Bhagwat will attend an event called the “Universal Oneness Celebration.”
The event aims to bring Hindu Americans together. Its organizers say it will promote unity and dialogue among different faiths.
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Mamdani spoke about his family background and his view of India.
He said his family taught him to see India as a diverse and secular country.
He also said every Indian should have an equal place in society.
Mamdani expressed concern about the rise of a movement based on a narrow view of Indian society.
RSS Faces Criticism
The RSS is a major Hindu organization in India.
The group has close links with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), India’s ruling party.
Mohan Bhagwat leads the RSS.
Some US groups and rights activists have raised concerns about his visit to New York.
They have also criticized the RSS over its record and views on religious minorities.
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RSS Rejects the Allegations
The RSS rejects claims that it promotes violence or hatred.
The group describes itself as a cultural and social movement.
It says it works to unite Hindus and help India develop.
The RSS also says the New York event will welcome people from different communities.
The group wants to highlight Indian culture and encourage dialogue among different faiths.
US Religious Freedom Concerns
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom has also raised concerns about the RSS.
The commission says groups linked to the RSS have faced accusations of violence and intolerance toward Muslims and Christians.
Indian officials have rejected such claims.
India has also criticized the US commission and questioned its reports on religious freedom.
Debate Over Bhagwat’s Visit
The event has renewed debate about religious freedom and minority rights in India.
Rights groups have raised concerns about hate speech and policies affecting religious minorities.
The Indian government rejects claims that its policies target any religious group.
The government says its welfare programs benefit people from all communities.
The debate is likely to continue as Bhagwat prepares to address the New York event on August 29.
