Karnataka Minister Launches Scathing Attack on RSS Over Financial Practices
In a fiery address at an event in New Delhi on Sunday, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge leveled serious allegations against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), accusing the organization of engaging in money laundering and evading tax obligations. Kharge demanded greater financial transparency and accountability from the RSS, questioning its sources of income and legal status.
Allegations of Financial Irregularities and Tax Evasion
Kharge pointed out that the RSS operates a vast network of over 2,500 organizations across countries like America and England, through which it allegedly receives funds. "I am telling you that these people are into money laundering," he asserted, challenging the organization's financial practices.
The minister emphasized that while ordinary citizens are expected to pay income tax and follow the law, the RSS appears to operate outside these norms. "They want us to be good citizens, pay income tax, but they want to remain free. How is that possible? We will have to question this," Kharge stated, highlighting a perceived double standard.
Legal Status and Constitutional Accountability
Kharge raised critical questions about the RSS's legal standing, noting that it is an unregistered organization. He argued that the same laws and Constitution that apply to all citizens and entities in India should also govern the RSS. "Are they above law or Constitution?" he asked, comparing the RSS to registered entities like the Bangalore Club that comply with tax regulations.
The minister specifically questioned the source of the RSS's Guru Dakshina donations, suggesting that the term is ambiguously defined. "According to them, Guru Dakshina means 'flag'. So, tomorrow morning, if I also hoist the blue flag and collect money, I will ask the government and them whether they will agree," Kharge remarked, implying potential misuse of donation practices.
Patriotism and Historical Criticisms
Kharge also took aim at the RSS's patriotic credentials, recalling that the organization did not hoist the national flag at its office for 52 years. "They teach us about patriotism," he said sarcastically, questioning the consistency of their actions.
Further, he criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for advocating for larger families while remaining unmarried himself, and linked this to broader political criticisms of the BJP. "Thus, the BJP is constantly saying things outside and inside, and is sending the children of the poor to the streets," Kharge added, blending social and economic critiques.
Attack on Bharat Ratna for Veer Savarkar
In a related development, Kharge launched a sharp attack on the demand to confer the Bharat Ratna on Veer Savarkar. He questioned why a figure he described as having "worked against Bharat" should receive the country's highest civilian honour.
This criticism came in response to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent comments at a lecture series titled '100 Years of Sangh Journey - New Horizons', where Bhagwat suggested that awarding Savarkar would enhance the prestige of the Bharat Ratna. Kharge posted a series of questions on social media platform X, targeting Savarkar's role during the freedom struggle, and vowed to continue pressing for the RSS's registration under the law until accountability is ensured.
