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Following Mohan Bhagwat’s US visit, 90 American politicians, including Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal, have pledged to reject political donations linked to the RSS. The move has triggered backlash from Hindu American groups, who allege discrimination and call the pledge “un-American”, while its organisers say it aims to counter political influence and protect democracy.

As many as 90 US politicians, including Indian-origin lawmakers Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal, have signed a pledge promising not to accept political donations from people or organisations associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

The initiative was launched shortly after RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat visited the US and addressed the "Universal Oneness Celebration" at New York City's Madison Square Garden on August 29. The event focused on themes including interfaith dialogue and "universal oneness".

The campaign was announced on August 31 by Hindus for Human Rights Action and the South Asian American Coalition to Renew Democracy Acts (SACRED Acts). According to the groups, politicians and candidates across eight US states have committed to refusing contributions from individuals and organisations linked to the RSS.

"In response to the RSS leaders' visit, Hindus for Human Rights Action, SACRED Acts, and their partners announce a nonpartisan pledge that includes a broad coalition of signatories from both the Democratic and Republican parties, including elected officials and candidates at the federal, state, and local/municipal level in eight states," the release read.