Zohran Mamdani Says He Does Not Support RSS Chief's New York Event

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said he does not support an upcoming event featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat in Manhattan. Bhagwat is scheduled to speak at the August 29 gathering, which organisers have described as the “Universal Oneness Celebration”. Mamdani, however, said he was unsure whether the city had the authority to cancel a private event.

Mamdani said his opposition was linked to his view of India as a pluralistic and secular society. He said the India he was familiar with through his family was one where people from different backgrounds belonged equally. He expressed concern over what he described as the rise of a movement based on an exclusionary vision, referring to the RSS and its ideology.

The event is being organised by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue and is presented as a gathering of the Hindu American community. Organisers say several Hindu American groups are supporting the programme and that it is intended to promote shared heritage and interfaith unity. However, several local organisations have criticised the event, particularly because of Bhagwat’s participation and concerns surrounding the RSS.

Also Read: Netanyahu Confronts Mamdani Over Rhetoric Against New York Jews

The RSS has rejected accusations that it promotes intolerance and describes itself as a Hindu-centric civilisational and cultural movement. The organisation says its objective includes bringing Hindus together and working towards what it considers the nation's progress. In May, the RSS also said it had organised foreign visits, including to the United States, to address perceptions about its activities and allegations concerning attacks on minority communities.

Bhagwat’s appearance in New York has therefore become a point of political and community debate ahead of the event. Mamdani's comments reflect his disagreement with the RSS and its ideological position, while also acknowledging the legal limits on a city government's ability to intervene in privately organised gatherings. The mayor did not indicate that his administration planned to take steps to stop the event.

The August 29 programme is expected to bring together members of the Hindu American community as organisers seek to highlight cultural heritage and unity. At the same time, criticism from community groups and Mamdani's public opposition are likely to keep attention focused on Bhagwat's visit and the broader debate surrounding the RSS's ideology and activities in the United States.

Also Read: Netanyahu Confirms UN General Assembly Visit Amid ICC Arrest Warrant Row