Nana Patole Questions Bhagwat's US Trip Amid RSS Row

Questions have been raised by Nana Patole, MLA of the Congress party, regarding the scheduled function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in New York, with Patole questioning the reason behind Bhagwat visiting the US despite some groups being against the presence of RSS there. These comments have been made just days before Bhagwat addresses the Indians in New York at a massive gathering there.

Questions Emanating from Patole Regarding Funding Sources of RSS

Patole has stated that RSS is not registered as an NGO in Maharashtra or even anywhere in India. However, it is known that RSS has accounts in banks in 36 countries. Patole raised concerns regarding lack of transparency with regard to the sources of funds for RSS and their utilization. Additionally, Patole stated that the USA had categorized RSS as an organization in the past.

Mixed Responses to Bhagwat's Visit to New York

Bhagwat arrived in New York on Tuesday and is on a tour which will also include visits to Canada and the United Kingdom. A tilak was placed upon the arrival of Bhagwat. Bhagwat will address the community during Universal Oneness Celebrations, which will be held at Madison Square Garden on August 29. The event is in connection with the celebration of the RSS. The Mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani, has stated that he does not approve of this event. He stated that he was unsure whether the city had any authority to stop this privately organized event. This whole controversy started in March when the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released a report against India and the RSS. New Delhi responded, saying that the report was misleading.