Senior RSS and BJP leader Ram Madhav has strongly criticized Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge for questioning the legal status, funding, and registration requirements of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Madhav labeled Kharge's demands as politically motivated and indicative of a lack of knowledge regarding the organization's nature.
Madhav's Rebuttal on RSS Status
Speaking to ThePrint, Ram Madhav clarified that while all RSS-affiliated organizations, schools, and NGOs are duly registered and adhere to government norms, the RSS itself operates as a voluntary body of individuals. He emphasized that the Sangh is not a conventional legal entity requiring formal registration, but rather a collective dedicated to societal, religious, and cultural welfare. Madhav pointed out that the RSS headquarters in Delhi, for instance, is managed by a properly registered trust that complies with all regulations.
Historical Precedent and Political Motivations
Madhav challenged Kharge to consult historical records, asserting that neither the British government, which saw the RSS's founding in 1925, nor subsequent Congress governments ever demanded its registration. He highlighted that former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru did not raise such questions, and even Lal Bahadur Shastri engaged with RSS leaders. Madhav further noted that Indira Gandhi's government, despite imposing restrictions on the RSS during the Emergency, never questioned its need for registration, acknowledging its unique structure. He concluded that the current debate is entirely politically driven.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's Stance
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat echoed Madhav's sentiments, rejecting the registration demand during an interaction in Thrissur, Kerala. Bhagwat stated that the RSS is transparent in its activities and has nothing to hide. He likened the demand to asking for the registration of "Hindu Dharma" itself, asserting that registration is primarily required for organizations seeking government funds. Bhagwat reiterated that the government is fully aware of the Sangh's existence and operations.
The controversy began when Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge wrote to Mohan Bhagwat, urging the RSS to register itself, clarify its legal status, and disclose its financial details, including funding, income, expenditure, and assets. Kharge argued that with RSS leaders receiving taxpayer-funded security protocols, the public is entitled to know if the organization meets the same legal standards as others.