'I Do Not Support It': NYC Mayor Mamdani Speaks Out Against Mohan Bhagwat's RSS Event

New York: Politics has heated up in New York regarding the visit of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat to America. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has openly opposed his programme being held at Madison Square Garden. However, he also said that this is a private event, so he does not know whether the city has the right to cancel it or not.

When will the event be held in Madison Square Garden?

Mohan Bhagwat has reached America as part of the global outreach campaign of RSS's centenary year. He will address the Indian community at the 'Universal Oneness' event at Madison Square Garden in New York on August 29. Around 5,000 people are expected to attend the event and it is being organised by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD). After this he will also go to Canada and Britain.

What did Mayor Mamdani say?

When Mamdani was asked about this in the press conference, he clearly said, "I don't support the rally, but I don't know if the city has any jurisdiction on cancelling a private event." I mean, I don't support this rally, but I don't know if the city has the authority to cancel a private event.

Mamdani said that the RSS programme is to be held on August 29 and Bhagwat will address around 5,000 people on the same day.

What did Mamdani say about India?

Referring to his Indian roots, Mamdani said that he is the first Indian-American mayor in the history of New York and his mother's family still lives in India. He said that the picture of India shown to him by his family was of a pluralistic society and secular republic. Thi, who believes in the belongingness of every person. He said that it is extremely disturbing for any country to see the rise of a movement based on exclusionary thinking and he is strongly opposed to it.

Which organisations came to protest?

A day before the event, several organisations protested outside New York City Hall under the banner of "No Platform for Hate". This included organisations like Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC), Hindus for Human Rights, Interfaith Center of New York and Dalit Solidarity Forum. They say that New York's most prestigious platform should not be given to the ideology of hatred.

What do the organisers say?

According to AHEAD Forum, this programme is based on the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. Organiser Aditi Banerjee said that this event along with the celebration of Raksha Bandhan gives the message of unity, civic responsibility and global harmony.