The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has said it is open to criticism and discussion after civil society organisations in the United Kingdom called for opposition to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s visit.
Speaking at a press briefing in London on Friday, RSS media head Sunil Ambedkar said differences of opinion were a normal part of democracy and maintained that the organisation was willing to engage with those who wanted a dialogue.
Bhagwat is currently on a three-nation tour as part of the RSS centenary outreach. After visiting the United States and Canada, he is scheduled to address a gathering in the United Kingdom.
‘We expect a debate and exchange of thoughts’
Ambedkar was responding to questions about a letter sent by 20 civil society groups to London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The organisations have urged the Greater London Authority to boycott events being organised by the RSS.
Ambedkar said the RSS had no objection to people expressing differing views.
"We are here for peace, integration, and oneness, and we are open to dialogue with everyone. There can be different voices in democracy. I think it's very normal to raise different voices. So we are here for the dialogue, and we are engaging those who wish to hold dialogue," said Ambedkar.
The groups have also asked Khan to condemn Bhagwat’s visit, referring to the response by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani to Bhagwat’s US visit.
Ambedkar said the debate surrounding the New York mayor’s position had already received responses from people across different sides.
"We are here to communicate what we are, what we think, how we think, and what our worldviews are. We are very much open, there's nothing to hide," he claimed.
"We expect a debate and exchange of thoughts. We're open to the dialogue. Let them speak," said Ambedkar.
UK groups raise concerns
In their letter to the UK foreign office, the organisations described Bhagwat’s visit as "part of a charm offensive of public outreach, supported by his allies in the UK".
They also described the RSS as “an authoritarian and militarist group which drew explicit inspiration from European fascism” and asked Khan not to provide a venue for the RSS-organised event.
The letter was signed by several organisations, including Hindus for Human Rights, UK-Indian Muslim Council, India Labour Solidarity and South Asia Solidarity Group.
The groups also sought information about measures being taken by the Metropolitan Police to protect communities. “The threats posed in Britain by the RSS are real, active and ongoing. Mr Bhagwat’s visit will embolden RSS affiliates in the UK to promulgate hate speech, further polarise the Indian diaspora, and create an environment of fear and intimidation for vulnerable communities across the country,” the letter read, as per the report.