RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s visit to New York has triggered criticism from several US Democrats, even as he used his address to call for unity, diversity and harmony among communities.
Bhagwat spoke at the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. The event, organised by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD), brought together thousands of Indian-Americans and interfaith representatives. Reports said more than 5,000 people attended the gathering.
Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib strongly criticised Bhagwat and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in a post on X. She said Bhagwat and what she described as his “Hindu nationalist ideology” were not welcome in American communities. Tlaib also accused the RSS of being linked to attacks and violence against religious minorities in India.
Another Democratic lawmaker, Jim McGovern, also criticised the event. He said Bhagwat should face “accountability” rather than receive a platform to promote what McGovern described as hatred. His comments referred to criticism of the RSS made by former officials of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.
The controversy had already grown before Bhagwat’s appearance. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he did not support the event and described the RSS’s ideology as exclusionary. However, he also acknowledged that the city did not have the authority to cancel a private event. The RSS has rejected accusations that it promotes intolerance and describes itself as a cultural and social organisation focused on national unity.
Despite the criticism, Bhagwat’s speech focused largely on unity and human interconnectedness. He said India’s strength lies in its unity in diversity and argued that differences in religion, lifestyle and culture should not divide people.
Bhagwat also spoke about the idea of “Dharma”, saying it should not simply be understood as religion or worship. He described it as a broader principle that helps sustain society and guide people towards the right path.
In another significant remark, Bhagwat said that if a Hindu believes there should be no Muslims in India, that person cannot truly remain a Hindu. He stressed that different communities can have different beliefs while still sharing a common humanity.
The New York visit has therefore become a mix of outreach and controversy. Supporters presented the event as a message of global harmony, while critics continued to question the RSS’s record and ideology. The debate is likely to continue as Bhagwat’s international outreach programme moves forward.
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