World · India Bureau
Over 100 Groups Support RSS Chief's Canada Visit Amid Political Controversy
More than 100 organizations have backed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's planned visit to Canada, even as some Canadian lawmakers have called for his entry to be blocked. The backing underscores deep divisions over the visit.
LSN India ·
Over 100 groups have voiced support for RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's visit to Canada, urging the government in Ottawa to reject calls from some Members of Parliament seeking to prevent his entry into the country.
The show of support comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, with the visit becoming a focal point of political debate. Bhagwat, who leads the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a Hindu nationalist organization with millions of members in India, had planned the visit despite the controversy.
Supporters of the RSS chief's visit argue that restricting his movement would constitute an infringement on freedom of movement and expression. The groups backing the visit represent various community, cultural, and religious organizations, primarily from diaspora communities.
Meanwhile, some Canadian parliamentarians have maintained their position that Bhagwat should be barred from entering the country, citing concerns about his organization's ideology and activities. The disagreement reflects broader tensions in Canadian political circles regarding India relations and domestic Hindu nationalist movements.
The controversy highlights growing scrutiny of the RSS internationally, even as the organization maintains a significant presence across India through its various affiliated bodies and social programs.