Mamdani says he opposes RSS rally in New York, but unsure of any jurisdiction to cancel it

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed opposition to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) rally scheduled to take place in the city, though he was uncertain if the city had any legal authority to cancel a privately organized gathering. Mamdani, who is of Indian-American descent, highlighted his family's roots in India and his belief in a pluralistic, secular society during a press conference.

He emphasized that the vision of India he learned from his family centered around inclusivity and belonging for all individuals, regardless of their background. However, he acknowledged the troubling nature of a movement that advocates for exclusion based on nationality, religion, or creed. The RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat, arrived in New York on Tuesday to begin a three-nation tour of the US, Canada, and the UK, with plans to address the Indian diaspora at Madison Square Garden on August 29th.

Mamdani's stance on the rally adds political significance to his visit, which has already sparked diplomatic tension. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has urged Washington to refrain from engaging with RSS leadership and has suggested potential sanctions, a stance that India's Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed.

The event organized by AHEAD forum, featuring cultural performances and faith leaders, is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of the Indian diaspora in New York.