Mohan Bhagwat Rejects Registration Demand, Says RSS Not a Secret Organisation

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has rejected demands for the organisation's registration, asserting that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is neither a secretive group nor one that operates away from public view. Speaking at the RSS centenary event in Thrissur, Kerala, Bhagwat stated, "We work in open fields, invite people, and explain what we do." He added that many entities function without registration and that the RSS has no hidden agenda. Bhagwat clarified that registration is necessary for organisations seeking government funding, but the government is already aware of the RSS's existence.

The remarks came in response to a letter from Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge, who had questioned the RSS's legal status and financial transparency. In his letter dated June 13, Kharge congratulated the RSS on completing 100 years but demanded that the organisation clarify its legal standing, funding sources, and expenditures. He argued that transparency and constitutional accountability are essential for all organisations, including the RSS. Kharge also questioned why the RSS should be exempt from registration when other entities like NGOs, trusts, and companies are required to comply with legal norms.

Kharge has previously made critical statements about the RSS. On October 20, 2025, he alleged that RSS workers had threatened him during a march in Chittapur. On July 1, 2025, he stated that a Congress-led central government would impose a ban on the RSS, accusing the organisation of working against secularism and socialism.

Key Points
- Mohan Bhagwat stated that the RSS is not a secretive organisation and operates openly.
- Bhagwat dismissed the need for registration, saying it is required only for entities seeking government funding.
- Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge questioned the RSS's legal status and financial transparency in a letter.
- Kharge argued that all organisations should adhere to transparency and constitutional accountability.
- Kharge has previously criticized the RSS and suggested a potential ban under a Congress-led government.