Overview
- Answering questions in Bengaluru, Mohan Bhagwat said registration was never required for the RSS, founded in 1925, and noted that post-Independence law does not mandate it.
- He argued that past government bans on the RSS show official recognition and said both courts and the Income Tax Department have treated it as a tax-exempt body of individuals.
- Addressing criticism over flags, Bhagwat said the organisation honors the Indian tricolour while revering the saffron flag within its tradition.
- On membership, he said Muslims and Christians may attend shakhas if they come as “sons of Bharat Mata” and part of a broader Hindu society, adding the RSS does not record caste or religion at gatherings.
- He reiterated that the RSS seeks to organise society rather than pursue electoral power, outlined outreach across all social strata, and responded to ongoing Congress challenges including Karnataka measures that faced a court stay.