Ahead of a rally in New York City this week led by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed significant concern about the event. He described the rise of a movement in India associated with Bhagwat as ‘incredibly troubling,’ citing its foundation on what he termed an ‘exclusionary vision.’ This statement underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the implications of such movements both domestically in India and internationally.
Earlier reporting noted: NYC Mayor Mamdani opposes RSS chief Bhagwat’s Madison Square event New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday (August 25, 2026) said he does not support the planned event at Madison Square Garden where Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will address members of the Indian diaspora.
Modi’s right wing regime has gone even further down the road of authoritarianism than Trump, and it is the responsibility of socialists to take a stand against it,” said former Seattle city council member Kshama Sawant on X, who is running for election to the US House of Representatives. Earlier reporting noted: However, he said the city may not have jurisdiction to cancel the “private” event, which is scheduled for August 29. Earlier reporting noted: “I don’t support the rally, but I don’t know if the city has any jurisdiction on cancelling a private event,” Mr. Mamdani said at a news conference in New York.
Members of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) also called for the US government not to extend diplomatic courtesies to Bhagwat and to place sanctions on the RSS. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Mamdani stressed his opposition to the rally but pointed out that the city’s government likely did not have the jurisdiction to cancel a private event.
Opposition to Exclusionary Movement in New York
Mamdani expressed deep concern over the growing influence of a movement that promotes an exclusionary vision for society. He stated, “It has been incredibly troubling to see the rise of a movement that is predicated on an exclusionary vision of any country, frankly. So it is one that I find myself in deep opposition to.” He emphasized that New York should be a city belonging to residents of all backgrounds, regardless of color or faith.
This statement comes amid calls from some activists and progressive political figures urging the Mayor to cancel Bhagwat’s rally at Madison Square Garden. The rally has sparked significant debate regarding its implications for the city’s diverse community.
