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Apartheid in their own land! 'Sangh is spreading hate', US Commission's cannon amid Bhagwat's visit
Sandy Verma | August 30, 2026 2:24 PM CST

There is a long history of apartheid in our country. But the lesson of religious freedom to India! The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) once again attacked the RSS amid Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's visit to New York.

Bhagwat held a meeting at New York's Madison Square Garden at around 2 pm local time. About five thousand people attended the event. But the heat around his meeting remained. USCIRF commissioner Dr. Asif Mahmud alleged that organizations like RSS are spreading hatred. Violating religious freedom and fundamental human rights. At the same time, he surprisingly kept the door open for discussion. He said, “I am ready to sit and talk with Bhagwat if I get a chance.” The organizers of the event claim that it is not a political rally. A platform for 'unity and mutual understanding' with people of different religions, cultures and communities. The RSS also said in a similar tone, “The event is in the spirit of open dialogue.” But critics are not satisfied with that explanation. According to Mahmud, he has respect for India. But his concerns about the RSS are serious.

However, the USCIRF commissioner has also offered to hold talks with the RSS chief instead of going into direct conflict. His argument is that if there is any such assurance or assurance from the Sangh chief in a face-to-face conversation, then his current position may change. That is, there are complaints, there are objections, but the road to discussion is not closed. USCIRF has earlier called for tougher action against the Sangh Parivar. He has also demanded to be banned several times. As a result, Mahmud's recent comments are not seen as an isolated incident by the political circles. Several interfaith and civil rights organizations in New York have also publicly objected to the event. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also attacked the Sangh Parivar a few days ago.

But here comes the question. Washington has repeatedly questioned religious freedom and minority rights in various countries, including India. But is American society free from discrimination? Discrimination between black and white citizens has a long history in Washington. The most talked about name in the pages of that history is – George Floyd.


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