‘RSS Friends’ registers in U.S. to step up outreach, correct inaccuracies
The RSS Friends, which provided a Georgia address in the registration document, listed Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Keshavkunj, New Delhi as its “foreign principal”
A group of supporters for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has registered with the United States Department of Justice under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) in an effort to boost outreach in the country. This entity, known as RSS Friends, is listed as a foreign agent of the RSS, with its "foreign principal" being the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Keshavkunj, New Delhi. The registration documents indicate a Georgia address for the group.
USCIRF, an American religious freedom watchdog, has called for sanctions against the RSS and expressed no interest in high-level meetings with its leaders. The RSS Friends announcement follows the upcoming visit of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat to the U.S., scheduled for August 29 in New York, organized by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) Forum.
The group's proposed activities include correcting or responding to inaccuracies, responding to incomplete or lacking information, and engaging in informational, educational, public relations, and community engagement activities. The RSS Friends emphasized that they do not have a formal contract with the RSS, but rather a relationship based on communication, coordination, and support.
The registration submission came two days before the New York event, which aimed to promote open dialogue and understanding between different religious and cultural groups. The RSS Friends described the RSS as an India-based volunteer and social cultural organization, listing Rajendra Sonarikar, Jayant Pant, and Devananda Gaddam as its Board of Directors.
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